JOTA Cadillac and Toyota present driver line ups

Text & Images: Rick Kiewiet

Right after the 2024 season close in Bahrain, significant announcements have shaped the grid's competitive landscape. Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA, marking its highly anticipated switch from Porsche to Cadillac, and Toyota, the reigning world champions, have unveiled driver rosters for the new season.

JOTA’s New Era with Cadillac

Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA has revealed its six-driver lineup for its first season fielding two factory Cadillac V-Series.Rs. This move follows JOTA’s takeover of Chip Ganassi Racing’s role as Cadillac’s WEC partner, marking a new chapter for both entities. Familiar faces headline the roster, with Alex Lynn and Earl Bamber stepping into their third season representing Cadillac in the championship. Notably, Sebastien Bourdais, a veteran in IMSA with cameo appearances for Cadillac in 2024, will be taking on a full-time WEC commitment for the first time.

Complementing this trio are Will Stevens, Norman Nato, and former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button, all returning from JOTA’s 2024 campaign.

Continuity and Consistency for Toyota

Toyota, fresh off the high of clinching the world manufacturers’ title, is opting for continuity. The marque confirmed that their six-driver squad will remain unchanged for 2025. The #7 GR010 Hybrid will once again feature Kamui Kobayashi, Mike Conway, and Nyck de Vries, who had a strong 2024 season with a notable victory at the 6 Hours of Imola. Meanwhile, Sebastien Buemi, Ryo Hirakawa, and Brendon Hartley will pilot the #8 Toyota, marking their fourth year as a unit after securing wins in Sao Paulo and Bahrain.

Kobayashi, who also serves as team principal, emphasized the importance of cohesion: “The team spirit and cooperation among all drivers grow with each season. We face strong competition in the Hypercar category, but our consistent driver lineup understands how to work together to achieve success.”