Tue Sep 17 07:04:34 UTC 2024: ## Toyota’s Six-Race Home Winning Streak Ends in Frustration at Fuji
**Fuji Speedway, Japan (Sept 17, 2024) -** TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s dominance at the Fuji Speedway came to an abrupt end during the 6 Hours of Fuji, the penultimate round of the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). Despite a valiant effort and strategic maneuvering, both of the team’s GR010 HYBRIDs fell short of the podium, ending their streak of six consecutive home wins.
The #8 GR010 HYBRID, driven by Sebastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa, appeared destined for a podium finish until a late penalty dropped them to 10th place. The #7 GR010 HYBRID, piloted by Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries, led the race with two hours remaining but was forced to retire due to damage sustained in an accident. This effectively ends the World Championship challenge for Kobayashi and de Vries with only one race remaining.
The race began with a setback for Toyota, with both cars losing ground early on. Despite a tough start, a strategic fuel and tyre strategy allowed the #7 car to take the lead with two hours remaining. However, the contact with the #5 Porsche damaged the car beyond repair, forcing its retirement. The #8 car also made progress, with Ryo Hirakawa pushing hard to reclaim a podium position in the final hour. But a late penalty for an incident with the leading #6 Porsche ultimately cost them a podium finish.
Despite the disappointing result, Toyota remains in contention for the manufacturers’ title. They are currently just 10 points behind leaders Porsche heading into the final race in Bahrain on November 2nd.
“It was a very tough race,” commented Kamui Kobayashi, Team Principal and driver of the #7 car. “We tried to fight but our lack of straight-line speed was clear, and unfortunately, we had contact with the #5 Porsche.”
The team expressed their disappointment for their home fans, partners, and Toyota colleagues but vowed to regroup and fight back in Bahrain for the championship.
First Piper 