Toyota confirm IRL withdrawal
Toyota have finally confirmed they will withdraw from the IRL IndyCar series immediately
The move has been anticipated for some time and Honda yesterday confirmed that they will supply the entire grid in 2006, effectively rubber-stamping Toyota's departure.
Toyota had originally planned to withdraw from American open-wheel racing following the 2006 season, but that decision was brought forward, Toyota say, to allow the IRL to move to a common engine for the upcoming season.
"We appreciate the time we've spent in the IndyCar Series," said Jim Aust, Toyota vice president of motorsports. "In winning the 2003 Indianapolis 500, Toyota earned its greatest motorsports accomplishment and we'll forever cherish that victory.
"Our gratitude goes out to Tony George and the Indy Racing League for providing us the opportunity to compete in, and win, the greatest spectacle in racing."
Overall, Toyota-engined cars won 17 races and 22 poles in the 49 races during their three years in the sport. In addition to winning the engine manufacturer championship in 2003, Scott Dixon campaigned Toyota power to the IndyCar Series title that same year.
"We truly appreciate Toyota's participation and service in the IndyCar Series," said Brian Barnhart, president and chief operating officer for the Indy Racing Leagues. "They have been great partners to the series both on and off the race track."
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