Toyota in the World Rally Championship

How many manufacturers championships was win Toyota

Toyota has won 7 world championships :

1993 Celica GT4

1994 Celica GT4

1999 Corolla WRC

2018 Yaris WRC

2021 Yaris WRC

2022 GR Yaris Rally1

2023 GR Yaris Rally1

Toyota rally cars

History of Toyota in the World Rally Championship

Toyota, the iconic Japanese automobile manufacturer, has carved out a formidable reputation in the World Rally Championship (WRC) through a blend of innovative engineering, spectacular victories, and memorable setbacks. Toyota's rallying journey is marked by the resilience and brilliance of its standout drivers and the technological advancements that have propelled the brand to the forefront of the sport.

Toyota's rallying history began to take shape in the late 1970s and early 1980s with the Toyota Celica models. The Celica's rugged reliability and performance potential became evident in various international rally events. However, it was in the mid-1980s with the introduction of the Toyota Celica GT-Four that Toyota truly made its mark in the WRC. The GT-Four, equipped with a turbocharged engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, quickly became a competitive force.

One of the pivotal moments in Toyota's rallying history was the 1990s, a decade marked by numerous triumphs and the emergence of Carlos Sainz as a dominant figure. Sainz, driving the Celica GT-Four, clinched the Driver's Championship in 1990 and 1992, showcasing his exceptional talent and the car's superior capabilities. His victories not only highlighted the performance of the GT-Four but also cemented Sainz's status as one of the sport's legends.

Another significant driver for Toyota during this era was Juha Kankkunen, who secured the Driver's Championship in 1993. Kankkunen’s success, combined with the consistent performance of the Celica, helped Toyota win the Manufacturer's Championship in 1993 and 1994. The contributions of these drivers, alongside the technical excellence of the Celica, established Toyota as a powerhouse in the WRC.

The transition to the Toyota Corolla WRC in the late 1990s brought continued success. The Corolla WRC was driven by Didier Auriol, who captured the 1994 Driver's Championship, and Tommi Mäkinen, who added further victories to Toyota's tally. These drivers' expertise and the Corolla's engineering advancements reinforced Toyota's competitive edge.

Despite these successes, Toyota’s rallying history also includes notable challenges and setbacks. One of the most dramatic incidents occurred during the 1995 Rally Catalunya, when Toyota was disqualified from the championship due to a turbocharger irregularity. This setback was a significant blow to the team, highlighting the fine line between innovation and compliance in motorsport. The disqualification underscored the importance of adhering to technical regulations and served as a learning experience for Toyota's rally program.

In the 21st century, Toyota made a triumphant return to the WRC with the introduction of the Toyota Yaris WRC in 2017. Under the leadership of team principal Tommi Mäkinen, the Yaris WRC quickly proved its mettle. Ott Tänak secured the Driver's Championship in 2019, while Toyota clinched the Manufacturer's Championship in 2018 and 2021. Tänak’s driving prowess, combined with the Yaris WRC’s cutting-edge technology, marked a new era of success for Toyota in rallying.

Sébastien Ogier, another standout driver, played a crucial role in Toyota's recent achievements. Ogier's experience and skill brought multiple victories, including the Driver's Championships in 2020 and 2021, further solidifying Toyota's position at the pinnacle of the sport. Ogier’s contributions have been instrumental in maintaining Toyota's competitive momentum and legacy in the WRC.

Toyota's journey in the World Rally Championship is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. From the early days of the Celica GT-Four to the modern dominance of the Yaris WRC, Toyota’s rally cars have set benchmarks for performance and reliability. The victories, challenges, and standout performances by legendary drivers like Carlos Sainz, Juha Kankkunen, Didier Auriol, Ott Tänak, and Sébastien Ogier illustrate the brand's resilience and competitive spirit.

Toyota’s legacy in the WRC continues to inspire and influence the world of motorsport. The brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and performance is reflected in its ongoing success and commitment to rallying excellence.