Toyota Gazoo Racing Unveils Retro Livery for Le Mans Anniversary
In a significant tribute to its 40-year history at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe (TGR-E) has introduced a retro livery for the #7 Toyota GR010-Hybrid, reminiscent of the iconic Toyota GT-One (TS020) that first raced at Le Mans in 1998.
The #7 car, driven by Mike Conway, Nyck de Vries, and Kamui Kobayashi—who also serves as Team Principal—will don the striking red and white colors formerly associated with the GT-One. This vehicle represented Toyota’s first factory entry at Le Mans, where it famously pushed the boundaries of the GT1 regulations.
Historical Context
The GT-One, equipped with a twin-turbo V8 engine, competed in 1998 and 1999, almost clinching Toyota’s maiden overall victory. In 1998, the #29 car led the race until a gearbox failure forced it to retire with just 90 minutes remaining. A year later, the #3 car, driven by Ukyo Katayama, Toshio Suzuki, and Keiichi Tsuchiya, was in a commanding position until a puncture dashed their hopes, ultimately finishing second while winning the LMGTP class.
Toyota achieved its first overall victory at Le Mans in 2018 and has since claimed five consecutive wins.
Current Designation
The #8 Toyota GR010, featuring drivers Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa, will maintain the team’s traditional matte black livery.
This homage to the GT-One not only highlights Toyota’s racing legacy but also engages a new generation through its inclusion in contemporary racing video games like Gran Turismo and Forza Motorsport, ensuring the car’s legacy endures.
For additional visuals, please refer to the provided images from Toyota and John Brooks.
