Haas to run August TPC in Japan for Toyota drivers

Haas will run a testing of previous car (TPC) event for two Toyota drivers at the Fuji International Speedway in August.

Ayao Komatsu’s team has only been able to set-up its TPC program this year, and has made use of the opportunity to give outings to its race drivers but also reserve option Ryo Hirakawa. A recently-announced partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing is also allowing Toyota personnel gain experience through TPC running, and the next step will involve Haas completing two days at Toyota’s home circuit.

Alongside Hirakawa – who will drive on August 6 – defending Super Formula champion and three-time Super GT champion Sho Tsuboi will experience his first taste of F1 machinery on August 7, with spectators allowed access across both days.

“I’m naturally very excited that in our first season running the team’s TPC program we’re able to enjoy two days running at Fuji Speedway in Japan,” Komatsu said. “The significance of running our car at Toyota’s home circuit – where we first announced our partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing last October, it’s quite special.

“To then give Sho Tsuboi his first outing in a Formula 1 car is equally satisfying considering his pedigree as a multiple champion. We’re obviously already familiar with Ryo’s talents and we look forward to his continued feedback into our program.

“The fact that we’re running the VF-23 and the test is open to fans – that’s a great thing too. We know the passion Japanese fans have for Formula 1, so to get a second run in the country there this year after April’s Japanese Grand Prix is fantastic.”

The test is further evidence of the strengthening partnership between Haas and Toyota, and Masaya Kaji – who is director of TGR Global Motorsport – says it will provide development opportunities for both the drivers and Toyota engineers.

“I’m very pleased that this TPC is being held at Fuji Speedway,” Kaji said. “We’ve formed a technical partnership aimed at honing the three essential elements of car manufacturing – ‘People, Pipeline and Product’. This TPC is part of our efforts related to ‘People’, which focuses on developing human resources.

“I believe that Sho’s challenge, given his experience as a champion of the Super Formula series, will not only contribute to his own skill development but also provide valuable motivation for the other TGR drivers.

“Additionally, Toyota Motor Corporation's mechanics and engineers will be present, making this a valuable learning opportunity for them as well. Experiencing the technologies and skills required on the world's highest stage of F1, up close, will surely be a significant experience for their growth.

“Together with MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, we aim not only to promote the growth of each driver, engineer, and mechanic through such challenges but also to enhance their technical skills. We believe that the experiences gained will be passed down to the next generation, contributing to the overall improvement of competition and technology levels in the motorsports industry.”