Toyota Gazoo Racing Announces Driver Line-Up for 2026 FIA WEC Season
Following a commanding 1-2 finish at the 8 Hours of Bahrain, Toyota Gazoo Racing has reaffirmed its commitment to consistency by retaining its driver line-up for the upcoming FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) season. Mike Conway, Nyck de Vries, and Kamui Kobayashi will continue in the #7 car, while Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryō Hirakawa will pilot the #8 entry. This marks the third consecutive year the team has retained this sextet, after de Vries replaced José Maria Lopez earlier this season.
Buemi, the team’s longest-serving driver since the Hypercar era began in 2012, expressed optimism following the recent season: “Finishing second in the World Championship is a nice boost for everyone’s morale going into next season.” Hirakawa added, “Next year the target is very clear, and we are looking forward to fighting at the front like this again.”
While the driver line-up remains unchanged, significant developments loom for Toyota as it prepares for a major overhaul of the GR010-Hybrid in 2026. This is aimed at addressing performance limitations that have arisen over five seasons and 20 race victories, making the GR010 the oldest car in the Hypercar grid.
The 2026 FIA WEC season will commence with the Qatar 1812KM on March 28, 2026, as Toyota seeks to reclaim the manufacturers’ championship and the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans title.
