Toyota Gazoo Racing confirms driver lineup for WEC 2025

Toyota Gazoo Racing has announced that it will continue with the same drivers for the 2025 season of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). After capturing the constructors' title in 2024, the team aims to defend its crown and secure a sixth victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The team will once again compete with two GR010 HYBRID prototypes in the Hypercar category. In car number 7, Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries will continue, having worked together in 2024 and secured third place in the drivers' standings. Meanwhile, car number 8 will remain under the leadership of Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryō Hirakawa, a trio that has claimed two world titles and one Le Mans victory in the last three seasons.

Kamui Kobayashi, who serves as both a driver and team director, emphasized the importance of keeping the group together: "The collaboration between all the drivers and the entire team strengthens with each race. Competing in the Hypercar category is a major challenge, and we face strong competitors, but as a team, we continually strive to improve at every event."

Sébastien Buemi, the longest-serving driver at Toyota Gazoo Racing, expressed his enthusiasm for remaining with the team: "This team is an essential part of my life. I grew up surrounded by Toyota and it has been incredible to be part of it since the beginning in 2012, achieving great results over the years."

The 2025 WEC season will once again feature eight races, starting in Qatar on February 28 and concluding on November 8 in Bahrain. The prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans will take place on June 14 and 15, where Toyota aims to expand its winning legacy.

Mike Conway shared his expectations: "It’s a pleasure to continue with this team after ten years. I truly feel like part of the family, and we are motivated to achieve more success." Nyck de Vries added: "We have important goals ahead, and we are committed to continuing to fight for wins and championships."

With the entry of new manufacturers into the Hypercar category, the level of competition will increase. However, Toyota trusts in the experience and cohesion of its drivers to stay at the top.

Brendon Hartley reflected on the upcoming year: "Although 2024 was not ideal for us, we are very motivated, and I have complete confidence in the people around me. I am excited about the challenge of competing again for the championship and Le Mans in 2025."

Ryō Hirakawa also expressed optimism: "It will be another demanding year with a new manufacturer joining the Hypercar group, but we know we have the potential and team spirit to succeed."