Toyota's Entry Into Supercars: A New Era for the Championship?
There's a buzz in the Supercars paddock, and it's not just the engines roaring. Whispers of a Japanese giant entering the championship are reaching a fever pitch. Sources are adamant that Toyota will join Supercars, possibly as early as 2026, bringing their iconic Supra model to the grid.
This potential move has the potential to shake things up. Supercars has been a two-manufacturer series since 2020, when Kelly Racing, formerly running Nissan, switched to Ford. Adding Toyota, a global heavyweight and top-selling manufacturer in Australia, could inject fresh energy and a new dynamic to the championship.
Why Toyota? A Look at the Brand's Motorsport History
Toyota has a long history in Australian motorsport, with a significant presence in both rallying and circuit racing. They've invested in the GR Cup, which utilizes the Toyota 86, but haven't made a commitment to Supercars yet.
Some believe Toyota's dominance in the Australian market has been a deterrent to participating in Supercars. However, the 2026 timeline of a potential entry aligns perfectly with the championship's ongoing broadcast negotiations, with the existing deal set to expire at the end of 2025.
The Walkinshaw Group: A Familiar Partner
The team most frequently mentioned in connection with the Toyota project is Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU). The Walkinshaw Group already has close ties to Toyota. They field an entry in the TGRA GR Cup and their automotive arm is responsible for right-hand conversion work on the Tundra.
WAU's shift from Holden to Ford at the beginning of the Gen3 era further fueled speculation about a potential partnership. They were actively pursuing a third marque and Toyota was on their shortlist.
What's Next for Supercars?
While details are scarce, the potential of Toyota joining Supercars in 2026 is a significant development. Their entry would not only introduce a new manufacturer but also inject a new level of excitement and international interest into the championship.
It will be exciting to see how the championship evolves with a potential third manufacturer, and what this means for the future of Australian motorsport. The stage is set for a thrilling chapter in the Supercars saga.
