Toyota refutes claims of a 2027 WEC agreement with Esteban Ocon.

This has led to rumors of a potential move to the World Endurance Championship – possibly with Toyota. However, Toyota advisor Alexander Wurz has clarified to Motorsport.com’s sister outlet Formel1.de on YouTube: "These rumors hold no truth."

Wurz stated that Toyota typically plans "quite far ahead" regarding Le Mans and its WEC initiatives, and that there are no intended changes to its existing six-driver roster.

"When you place three dominant personalities in a single car, it takes time for them to acclimate to one another, to discover the optimal setup and collaborate effectively, and to reach a stage where they support each other rather than compete internally. That’s a crucial distinction," the Austrian elaborated.

#8 Toyota Gazoo Racing Toyota TR010: Sebastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, Ryo Hirakawa

"That’s one of Toyota’s advantages: we have a solid team structure and culture, which cannot be altered overnight.

"To begin with, we have long-term agreements. Furthermore, you can’t simply insert another driver from outside into the lineup. This could disrupt the culture we have been cultivating since 2012. Preserving that culture is one of my primary duties as an advisor and someone closely involved with the drivers.

He continued: "No matter how you view it, the contracts are long-term, and our lineup for the upcoming year is completely filled."

Toyota is currently competing in the WEC with Mike Conway, Nyck de Vries, and Kamui Kobayashi in one vehicle, and Sebastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa in another. The Japanese manufacturer has recently triumphed in its home race at Fuji, culminating in an exhilarating finish with local idol Hirakawa behind the wheel for the final stint.