Toyota confirms Glock for 2008 alongside Trulli

Toyota has confirmed that 2007 GP2 champion Timo Glock will be in the team in 2008 as a primary driver.

The German has been expected at Toyota for several months. Last week, the Contract Recognition Board ruled that Glock was free to leave BMW Sauber, where he was present as a test driver and reserve driver, and join the Japanese manufacturer.

« I am very happy to regain a driver status in F1 and I am really looking forward to facing this new challenge, » said Glock.

« I have worked tirelessly over the past few years to earn this opportunity, and I must say that I am grateful to Panasonic Toyota Racing for trusting me. »

According to what I have seen of the team on the track, I am convinced that we will be able to work well together to move forward and continue to improve, he stated.

Even though I haven’t raced in F1 since 2004, I’ve participated in tests quite regularly, so the sensations should come back quickly.

After his stint with the Jordan team, Glock was a driver in Champ Car in 2005, before returning to Europe to compete in the GP2 championship, winning the title that year.

« I have had the chance to participate and shine in several championships in my career, but my goal has always been to become a full-time F1 driver. I think this experience has made me stronger as a driver and as a person, » he said.

« Of course, it’s encouraging to think that I am a GP2 champion before arriving in F1. We have all seen how Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton made their transition from GP2 to F1. I hope I can make as strong an impression next season. »

« Today, I have achieved my goal of returning to F1, my next goal is to work as much as possible so that 2008 for Toyota rhymes with success, » continued Glock.

The team principal of Toyota, Tadashi Yamashina-Ku, is convinced that Glock will impress on his return to F1.

« It is with great pleasure that we confirm Timo Glock as a race driver for Panasonic Toyota Racing in 2008, » he said.

« I am convinced that Timo has the expected potential to help this team move forward and achieve its goals. »

« Timo has extensive experience in motorsports across several championships and solidified his reputation by winning the GP2 title, which was fantastic preparation for F1. »

« He demonstrated a fighting spirit and delivered very fine races in GP2, so we believe he has great abilities, » concluded Yamashina-Ku.

Glock will replace his compatriot Ralf Schumacher at Toyota.