In a strategic move aimed at maintaining competitive momentum, Toyota Gazoo Racing has officially confirmed its unchanged 2025 WEC driver line-up.
This announcement follows a triumphant season where the team clinched its seventh Manufacturers’ title following a thrilling finale in Bahrain, highlighting its dominance in the Hypercar category.
The decision to retain the same six drivers across their two GR010 Hybrid Hypercars reflects Toyota’s commitment to stability and cohesion as they prepare to defend their title and pursue further victories, including a coveted sixth win at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The 2025 WEC driver line-up for the #7 GR010 Hybrid will once again feature Kamui Kobayashi, who also serves as team principal, alongside Mike Conway and Nyck de Vries.
This trio will embark on their second season together after a successful debut year that saw them secure a victory at the 6 Hours of Imola and achieve two additional podium finishes, including a commendable second place at Le Mans.
Their performance placed them third in the Drivers’ standings, showcasing their potential for further success in the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, the 2025 WEC driver line-up for the sister #8 GR010 Hybrid entry will continue to be Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryō Hirakawa. This trio has established a formidable partnership over the past three seasons, during which they have celebrated two world titles and a remarkable overall victory at Le Mans in 2022.
Kamui Kobayashi who serves as both a driver and Team Principal articulated his confidence in the team’s ability to excel in the highly competitive Hypercar category.
“We have a top 2025 WEC driver line-up in both cars, and I am happy to be part of it again in 2025,” Kobayashi said. “The team spirit and cooperation among all the drivers, and the team in general, grows with every race and every season.
“Thanks to the great support of everyone at Toyota, as well as our partners, we have enjoyed some good results this year, but we are determined to achieve more.
“Competing in the Hypercar category in WEC is a big challenge and we are fighting against very strong competition, but as a team we continuously push ourselves to perform even better at every event.
“I expect this to continue next season, with a consistent line-up of drivers who understand how to work together – as a driver crew, as team members and as part of the Toyota family – to succeed in endurance racing.
“I know the whole team is excited by the challenge in 2025 WEC.”
Buemi, who has been with Toyota since its inaugural race at Le Mans in 2012, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to continue with a team that feels like family.
“This team is a big part of my family,” he said. “I grew up around Toyota because my family has had a Toyota dealership for over 50 years, and I remember having my photo taken next to the GT-One at the Geneva Motor Show when I was a child.
“It is amazing to be part of the team since the first season in 2012, having achieved a lot of good results in that time. Thank you to everyone at Toyota Gazoo Racing for giving me the opportunity to go for another win at Le Mans and the World Championship.”
De Vries expressed his excitement about continuing with the team after transitioning from Formula 1 to endurance racing last season.
“I am delighted to stay on car #7 with Mike and Kamui,” said de Vries. “We have enjoyed a good first season together.
“Of course, we have had ups and downs but generally, it has been a great experience. I am looking forward to being part of this team in 2025, it is a true pleasure and honour.
“Toyota Gazoo Racing has a lot of history and a great track record in WEC, and we have a lot of ambitions in front of us. We are determined to keep fighting for wins and championships.”
The 2025 WEC season promises an exhilarating schedule featuring eight races that kick off on February 28 in Qatar and conclude on November 8 in Bahrain. The iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans will take center stage on June 14-15, where Toyota aims to extend its legacy at this prestigious event.
