Australian GP – Winning a race becomes necessary for Toyota

Toyota’s winter has been anything but restful. Honda has decided to withdraw from Formula 1 due to the drop in global car sales. Toyota is next on the list and has significantly reduced its budgets.

Next to that, the Japanese team conducted good pre-season tests, confirming their strong form following a satisfactory 2008 season. They finished 5th in the constructors’ standings after being overtaken by Renault in the last races of the season.

Jarno Trulli – Racing Driver

Melbourne is an ideal place to visit Australia, and participating in this Grand Prix is always a pleasure. As a Formula 1 driver, I am happy that the season is starting.

« I am motivated for this season and I think we have our chances. The TF109 is the best car I have been able to drive in testing. It is stable, seems to be quite fast, even though it’s difficult to make too many judgments based on the tests.

« We took a big step last year, the proof is we can fight for the podiums and regularly finish in the top six. I have hope for another step forward this year. We now have more experience and the team has worked very hard for a long time on the TF109. We are ready for the season. »

Timo Glock – Racing Driver

« It’s very exciting to go to the first race location of the year because the major changes in technical regulations give Toyota the opportunity to compete at the top of the field. I know that our testing program and the results we have achieved are very encouraging. »

« For this second season with Toyota, it’s a different feeling that dominates me compared to 2008 because now I am much closer to the team. I believe I can really start the season strongly. In 2008, it took me a few races to find the right setup on the car, but I don’t think that will be a problem this season. »

John Howett – President Toyota:

« This is a great season for our team, and we have set high goals for ourselves. We want to win this season, and we have every reason to be optimistic after the very good winter tests. This is our eighth season in Formula 1, and we have learned a lot since then. We are more experienced and better equipped to succeed. »

« Our drivers are important assets for us this season. Jarno has enormous experience and everyone knows he is extremely fast, while Timo is a young explosive driver who showed his great potential last year. »