After a rather successful 2005 season, our sights are now set even higher up the grid, and we feel that Bridgestone is ideally suited to the technical demands of F1 in the future and will be the best match for our 2006 car. Toyota is serious about winning in F1, and we feel that the switch to Bridgestone tires is the best option in the medium-long term. |
Although we have reached a joint decision to go our separate ways, I wish to extend my sincerest gratitude to Mike for the indisputable contribution he has made to our team over the last few years. |
I'm utterly flabbergasted. What Sato did is just not on. It was a hopelessly ambitious move. It was reckless and I'm very annoyed. |
It seems we have lost the considerable performance advantage we have built up since the middle of last year so we have a lot of work to do to understand the reasons. This is a very frustrating atmosphere but I'm sure that we will make every effort to come back at the coming races. |
The first grand prix weekend of 2006 has been a shocking way to start the year. |
This separation should in no way undermine the work he has done, nor reflect his technical expertise. We all wish him well for the future. |