Toyota quits F1

[Perdita]

TOYOTA today confirmed they are pulling out of Formula One with immediate effect for financial reasons.

The announcement was made at a media conference in Tokyo by Toyota Motor Corporation president Akio Toyoda.

The world’s largest car maker is now the third major manufacturer to withdraw from F1 in the space of 11 months after Honda and BMW.

Toyota’s departure continues the exodus of Japanese companies from motor sport as Subaru and Suzuki withdrew from the World Rally Championship prior to this season.

In motorbikes, Kawasaki pulled out of MotoGP, and on Monday tyre manufacturer Bridgestone announced they will not be renewing their supply contract in F1 after next season.

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/motorsports/view/106685/Toyota-quit-F1/

[Siobhan]

No way!! Can't believe another one has gone

[Perdita]

Is this the end of motor racing?

[alan45]

Unfortunately its true Shive and with Bridgestone pulling out at the end of 2010 that leaves no Japaness involvement in F1.:crying:

[Siobhan]

Is this the end of motor racing?

Don't think it is the end of motor racing.. we still have the main player in it and some new teams starting...

[Perdita]

I was just thinking that if all the major companies like Honda and Toyota etc. are pulling out for financial reasons, how will the other companies afford to keep it going?

[Siobhan]

Renault is struggling too with commerical cars but can still keep in F1.. Most of the cars on the grid now are using either Ferrari, Mercedes or Renault engines... Very few used Honda or Toyota as they were unreliable for F1 cars..

[alan45]

I was just thinking that if all the major companies like Honda and Toyota etc. are pulling out for financial reasons, how will the other companies afford to keep it going?

Honda and Toyota were never big players in F1. It is dominated by Mercedes (who own 40% of Maclaren) and are rumoured to be buying a 75% stake in Brawn GP, Ferrari who are owned by Italian car giant Fiat are the other major player in F1.

2010 should be a good year now that McLaren have got their design perfected and Im looking forward to a real battle between Button, Hamilron and Vettel. Alonso who has now moved to Ferrari will be one to watch if Ferrari can get their car sorted