P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Vasselon’s departure as Toyota technical director was brought forward
Toyota Racing has confirmed that a succession plan is in place for Pascal Vasselon, the current technical director, to be succeeded by David Floury. Floury will take over as technical director of the organization responsible for the World Endurance Championship program and the development of engines for the World Rally Championship GR Yaris Rally 1. The timing of the transition may have been different, but Vasselon is expected to stay within the Toyota organization with a new role. Vasselon, who has held the position since 2006, was set to play a key role in Toyota’s plan to introduce a hydrogen combustion engine prototype at the 2027 Le Mans 24 Hours. The move was implemented by TGRE’s top management, signaling a potential fallout within Toyota’s motorsport management hierarchy. This leadership transition is part of a strategy to develop the next generation of company leadership and marks the first step in an updated management organization.