Toyota GAZOO Racing Secures Second Place at Lone Star Le Mans
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) demonstrated exceptional performance at the Lone Star Le Mans, round six of the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Despite starting in ninth place, Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries showcased their skills and determination to secure second place in their No. 7 Toyota GR010 Hybrid Electric Hypercar. With smart tire strategy, quick pit stops, and a united team effort, TGR now leads the manufacturers’ World Championship with an 11-point advantage.
### Toyota GAZOO Racing Excels on the Racing Track
Conway’s impressive performance at the start of the race allowed the team to advance significantly, despite facing early contact. De Vries continued to push forward, leveraging the hot weather conditions to their advantage. By the third hour, Conway took over and increased the pace, setting a new fastest lap.
### Strategic Pit Stops and Determination
TGR’s aggressive strategy led to an early pit stop in the fourth hour, enabling Kobayashi to take the lead. However, a race-changing drive-through penalty later on pushed Kobayashi to second place. Despite the setback, Kobayashi pushed hard and finished a close second, just 1.780 seconds behind the leader.
### Toyota’s Legacy in Motorsports
Over the years, Toyota has participated in various motorsports events, with a focus on Formula One, the WEC, and the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race. In April 2015, Toyota established TGR to consolidate all motorsport activities under one brand, emphasizing the importance of motorsports in developing ‘ever-better’ cars and technologies.
### Future Challenges at 6 Hours of Fuji
The upcoming challenge for TGR is the 6 Hours of Fuji, happening on 15th September at the Fuji Speedway. Known for its high-speed flowing corners and technical turns, this race will test the skills and endurance of drivers. TGR is poised to bring their A-game to their home ground and continue their impressive performance in the FIA WEC.
In conclusion, TGR’s success at the Lone Star Le Mans exemplifies the team’s dedication to pushing boundaries, overcoming challenges, and showcasing the capabilities of Toyota’s electrified vehicle technology. With the upcoming race at Fuji Speedway, TGR is set to continue their momentum and strive for more podium finishes in the FIA World Endurance Championship.