Toyota and Mazda exchange cordial words regarding a race invitation

In a surprising turn of events, Akio Toyoda, also known as Morizo, the president of Toyota, has decided not to participate in the Tsukuba 2.5-hour Media Roadster Endurance Race in 2020. Instead, he will be racing at the Fuji SUPER TEC 24 Hours Race.

This decision comes after Morizo's team, Team Morizo, finished second in the 2019 Tsukuba race, overtaking Mazda's "Works" team. Akira Marumoto, the president of Mazda, expressed his regret over Morizo's decision and extended an invitation for him to participate in the Tsukuba event on the first Saturday of September next year.

In a letter, Marumoto emphasised the shared passion for cars between the two presidents, and mentioned Mazda's commitment to "make ever better cars" to avoid losing to Toyota. He also mentioned that a Mazda Roadster has been flawlessly maintained for Morizo's Rookie Racing team.

Morizo, in his response, declined the invitation, citing scheduling conflicts. He penned a letter to inform participants and organisers of his decision, and chose to participate in another race at Fuji International Speedway instead.

The Fuji SUPER TEC 24 Hours Race, unlike the Tsukuba event, allows for full acceleration without fuel efficiency concerns. Teams in the Fuji race are limited to 3-5 members, with only one professional racecar driver per team. In contrast, the Tsukuba event requires driving that prioritises fuel efficiency, as vehicles are only allowed 90 liters of gasoline.

Marumoto had vowed to get revenge on Morizo's team after they overtook Mazda's "Works" team in the 2019 Tsukuba race. However, both presidents maintain a playful and competitive spirit, suggesting potential future competition in 2021.

The Tsukuba event, traditionally a 4-hour race, was shortened to 2.5 hours this year. Unfortunately, Mazda's "Works" team will not be participating in the 2020 event due to changes in its format.

In a gesture of sportsmanship, Marumoto wrote a letter to Morizo in response to his decision not to participate in the Tsukuba event this year. Both presidents express a mutual respect and admiration for each other's passion and dedication to the world of racing.

As the racing season continues, fans eagerly anticipate the potential future competition between Team Morizo and Mazda's "Works" team. The racing world is sure to be abuzz with the competitive spirit and camaraderie between these two automotive giants.