Toyota Introduces New Division Focused on Expression of Sporting Enthusiasm
In a nod to its long-standing appreciation for the power of sports, Toyota has launched a new section on its official news platform, Toyota Times. Titled "TEAMS & ATHLETES," this section offers insights into Toyota's sports teams in Japan and the global athletes it supports.
The section pays homage to the values that Toyota has cherished since its inception in 1937 β challenge, never giving up, teamwork, and respect. Akio Toyoda, the current president of Toyota and grandson of the company's founder, Kiichiro Toyoda, has emphasised the importance of sports within the company.
Akio Toyoda believes that the spirits of "never giving up" and "for the team" were crucial for the founding members of Toyota in their endeavour to establish the automotive industry in Japan. This ethos is reflected in the company's sports teams, which include Nagoya Grampus (soccer team) and Alvark Tokyo (basketball team).
The "TEAMS & ATHLETES" section provides detailed information about Toyota's sports teams in Japan, including baseball, women's basketball, soccer, and basketball teams. It also offers background stories about some of these athletes, highlighting their challenges and ambitions.
The passion for sports at Toyota dates back to its founding, with the first sports club, track and field, established within the company in 1937. By 1974, Toyota had as many as 35 different sports clubs, each located at primary working locations in Japan.
In 1951, Toyota held its first-ever "All-Toyota Games," an event where Toyota Group companies competed in various athletic activities. This tradition continues to this day, fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition among Toyota employees.
The section also includes a list of approximately 240 Global Team Toyota Athletes, which can be sorted by specific competitions and regions. However, there is no specific information available about globally active Toyota-sponsored athletes who have participated in international competitions in recent years. Toyota acts as a mobility partner for Olympic and sporting organizations, but no detailed athlete roster is provided in the available sources.
Notably, motorsport drivers like Ott TΓ€nak compete against Toyota teams but are affiliated with other manufacturers.
The new section of Toyota Times Sports series features athletes who train hard every day and those working in the motorsports world. Toyota Times will uncover the actions and spirit of Toyota's athletes in this new section.
The "TEAMS & ATHLETES" section can be accessed by clicking the provided link. It serves as a testament to Toyota's commitment to keeping its internal sports teams, recognising sports as a way of bringing people together. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Team Toyota athletes around the world continue to strive and aim high.
