Toyota hopes to seize its chance at home

In four events on the Japanese track at Fuji since 2012, Toyota won three consecutive times between 2012 and 2014, nevertheless leaving the spotlight last year to the Porsche 919 Hybrid entrusted to the Webber – Bernhard-Hartley trio, then on their way to the Drivers’ world title.

If the round contested not far from Mount Fuji is still of particular importance for the manufacturer from the Aichi prefecture, the LM P1 drivers under the Japanese banner especially hope to see the scenario of the event turn in their favor, after a season which will not have smiled on Toyota, especially at Le Mans.

“I hope we will have finally a little more luck with car number 5, admits Anthony Davidson. I would really like to enjoy being on the podium, especially in front of our home crowd. »

Twice third with the No. 050 TS6 Hybrid in Mexico and in Austin in the United States, Stéphane Sarrazin is particularly optimistic about Toyota's chances this weekend. The TS050 Hybrid will once again be equipped with its high downforce aero package which seems to be satisfactory in the Japanese clan.

“We had two solid races in America, and we came very close to winning in Austin, explains the Frenchman. So the objective for Fuji is clear: we want to perform very well and fight for victory.

We always go to Fuji with victory as our goal because it’s our home race and we have so much support there. The track should be even more suitable for our car than Austin so I'm optimistic. »

The Venturi pilot in Formula e will always be supported by Mike conway et Kamui Kobayashi, who knows the Japanese track well having played there in Super Formula, will make his debut in LM P1 at home in the race.