Toyota launches its Young Driver Academy for GT3

The initiative, led by GR Customer Racing, aims to identify and support promising young drivers with a view to their potential integration into the Japanese manufacturer's GT3 activities from 2027. This process is launched as the new Toyota GR GT3 is expected to compete in 2027.

This academy is part of Toyota's commitment to structuring a genuine development pathway for drivers wishing to pursue a career in endurance and GT racing. The objective is clear: to identify the most promising talents and progressively guide them towards the highest level. The Japanese manufacturer is indeed involved in the GT categories of the...IMSA and WEC via Lexus.

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A progression path towards GT3

The program is based on a gradual progression within the GT world, starting with GT4, notably driving the GR Supra GT4 EVO2, before potentially reaching the GT3 category. Toyota will leverage its global engineering and motorsport infrastructure, as well as the experience gained by the Supra GT4 in international championships.

Beyond pure performance, the manufacturer also wants to train well-rounded drivers, capable of understanding the technical aspects of the car, working with engineers and progressing in a professional environment.

A multi-stage selection process

The selection process will begin with an initial simulator assessment. Candidates will be invited to Toyota Racing's Cologne facilities in April 2026, where their performance will be analyzed according to several criteria: lap times, consistency, and the quality of their technical feedback.

The most convincing drivers will then advance to a second stage, scheduled for this summer at Motorland Aragón in Spain. There, they will participate in a GT3 test to demonstrate their speed, adaptability, teamwork, and ability to improve through coaching.

At the end of this phase, the most promising profiles may be recommended to join the GR Customer Racing GT3 program in 2027.

Specific criteria for applying

All drivers already committed to driving a Toyota GT in 2026 will be automatically entered into the first evaluation phase. The program is also open to drivers aged 17 to 27, provided they have the necessary licenses and eligibility to compete in the FIA ​​GT3 category.

Drivers already competing in GR Supra GT4 will have priority access to the program. By competing in GT4 championships with the manufacturer's car, they will be closely monitored by GR Customer Racing's engineers and sporting directors, which could facilitate their progression within the program.

A data-driven assessment

Toyota intends to rely on a highly analytical approach within this academy. Performance will be evaluated at each stage using objective data, with specific targets, advanced simulations, and structured real-time analyses.

The program is also designed to fully comply with FIA GT3 sporting regulations, thus ensuring credible progression to the highest levels of GT competition.

To train well-rounded pilots

Beyond on-track performance, the Young Driver Academy also aims to develop the drivers' overall skills. Participants will work specifically on their physical preparation, their technical understanding of the cars, and their professionalism within a team environment.

With this new program, Toyota intends to consolidate its talent development strategy and prepare for the future of its international GT programs.

Applications for the Young Driver Academy 2026 are open until March 27, 2026, with information available at the following address: youngdriveracademy@toyota-racing.com.