TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Faces Challenges at Lone Star Le Mans in 2025 WEC

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing encountered formidable challenges at the Lone Star Le Mans during the sixth round of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). Held at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, the event was marked by heavy rain, multiple safety cars, and a slippery track, testing the limits of drivers and vehicles alike.

The Lone Star Le Mans proved to be a rigorous test for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, as the heavy downpour transformed the race into a strategic battle against the elements. The #8 GR010 HYBRID, driven by Sébastien Buemi, Brendon Hartley, and Ryo Hirakawa, fought valiantly to finish in ninth place. Meanwhile, the #7 car, piloted by José María López, Kamui Kobayashi, and Nyck de Vries, faced a series of mishaps and ended the race in 14th place.

The race was delayed for nearly two hours, including an hour behind the safety car and a red flag, before finally commencing. Brendon Hartley started seventh in the #8 car, while Nyck de Vries began 17th in the #7. As the race progressed, strategies evolved with the changing weather conditions. Despite the challenges, Nyck de Vries managed to advance into the top 10 early on, showcasing skill and resilience.

Driver changes brought fresh dynamics to the race. José María López took over the #7 car during a safety car period, while Ryo Hirakawa assumed control of the #8, facing deteriorating conditions as rain intensified. The treacherous track triggered numerous incidents across the field, with Ryo spinning after being nudged by an LMGT3 car but recovering to regain positions.

The latter part of the race saw the #7 car stuck in gravel after José experienced two spins, necessitating recovery under another safety car. Kamui Kobayashi then took the wheel, resuming 17th, as the race oscillated between green and safety car conditions. Meanwhile, Sébastien Buemi navigated the #8 to eighth place, though briefly losing a position to the #83 Ferrari.

As the track dried in the final half hour, Kamui switched to slick tires, only to experience a harmless spin. Despite these setbacks, Sébastien kept the #8 on course, crossing the finish line in ninth place. The #7 car, despite its trials, completed the race four laps down, a testament to the team's perseverance in adverse conditions.

Reflecting on the race, team members expressed determination to improve in upcoming events, with the 6 Hours of Fuji in Japan next on the calendar. Kamui Kobayashi emphasized the importance of bouncing back, while José María López and Nyck de Vries acknowledged the difficulties but remained optimistic. Sébastien Buemi and Brendon Hartley echoed these sentiments, underscoring the team's resolve to perform better in their home race.