Toyota to pull out of Formula One, it’s true. I’m surprised, though not disappointed. Surprised because it could be seen as an admission of defeat in some circles and, or course, loss of face. Though not as big an embarassment as posting the first financial loss for many decades. In business, Toyota don’t do second place.
I’m not disappointed because I think Toyota has many other avenues open in world motorsports that would give a better return on their investment.
Remember the iconic shot of Kankkunen in the Celica against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro, King Carlos so narrowly missing out on a WRC crown in the Corolla, GT racing at Le Mans and in the USA? All things they could now attack. And how about getting out there with the new Lexus LFA and building a motorsport image for Lexus? With a new chairman who’s a racer, they won’t quit motorsport completely.
Sure, Bernie and the FIA will be disappointed, but they’ll get over it. Meanwhile, lets take a breath, feel sorry for all the F1 team staff who undoubtedly put their heart and soul into winning and listen to see where they’re headed now. Personally, I think it might just be the start of some exciting times, with luck.