Unsurprisingly, Toyota confirmed it would remain the World Endurance Championship's main contender in LMP1 next year.

After Porsche's retreat from the series, there had initially been doubts about the Japanese manufacturer's sustained involvement, but at last night's season awards ceremony in Bahrain, Toyota Gazoo Racing's Team president, Hisatake Murata, confirmed its commitment to the WEC.

Toyota won five races this season, including the final three races of the 2017 campaign.

Victory at the coveted Le Mans 24 Hours was once again snatched by arch-rival Porsche however, a defeat which likely fueled Toyota's decision to extend its involvement in the WEC.

Obviously, it will line up at Le Mans next year as the grand favourite, and perhaps armed with the talent of one Fernando Alonso who tested for the team yesterday in Bahrain.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Antonelli caught off guard by Vettel record question in Austin

Kimi Antonelli is closing in on a place in Formula 1 history, but one chapter…

2 hours ago

Hadjar: Red Bull’s car was “completely gone” in Austin

Red Bull arrived in Austin riding a wave of momentum, but Friday’s running at the…

4 hours ago

A landmark triumph for Ginther, Honda and Goodyear in Mexico

The Mexican Grand Prix at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez will always hold a special place…

4 hours ago

Newey: Honda’s resolve ‘only strengthened’ by struggles

Adrian Newey has offered a candid assessment of Aston Martin’s challenging first season with Honda,…

6 hours ago

Leclerc insists Ferrari upgrade 'definitely not what you think'

Charles Leclerc topped both Friday practice sessions at the Circuit of the Americas, but refused…

7 hours ago

Norris wrestling with ‘difficult’ McLaren car: ‘We’re a step behind’

Lando Norris concluded Friday’s running at the United States Grand Prix with a familiar frustration:…

8 hours ago