Haas Boss: Toyota Will Influence Driver Picks, But Speed Wins
As Toyota becomes Haas' title sponsor, it will seek influence over driver line-ups. However, Team Principal Ayao Komatsu stresses that driver performance remains the non-negotiable priority for any race seat.
Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu confirmed that new title sponsor Toyota will have a voice in the team's future driver selections. However, he emphasized that this influence is secondary to the non-negotiable principle of choosing drivers based purely on on-track performance, a stance fully supported by Toyota's chairman, Akio Toyoda.
Why it matters:
The deepening partnership with an automotive giant like Toyota is a massive step for Haas, but it raises questions about the team's independence and the potential for 'pay-driver' scenarios. Komatsu's firm stance that performance is paramount is crucial for maintaining the team's sporting credibility and attracting top talent, ensuring the collaboration is a genuine sporting endeavor rather than just a commercial one.
The details:
- Toyota’s stated goal includes developing its own drivers within the F1 environment, a key part of its title sponsorship agreement with Haas starting in 2026.
- Performance over Politics: Komatsu stressed that even Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda agrees that placing a driver who isn't competitive would be a "joke" and look like the company was simply "buying a seat with money."
- The team's 2026 line-up of Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon is already confirmed, but the focus is already shifting toward the wide-open 2027 driver market, which will be shaped by how competitive teams are with the new regulations.
- Toyota’s involvement is already active, with factory driver Ryo Hirakawa conducting testing of previous cars (TPC) for Haas this year.
What's next:
With the 2026 season set to kick off with new regulations, Haas's immediate priority is clear: build a competitive car. Komatsu believes a strong performance next year is the best way to position the team favorably for the lucrative 2027 driver market. The team's new livery for the VF-26 will be unveiled on January 23rd, marking the official start of the Toyota-Haas era.