Laurent joins Toyota as test and reserve driver for 2019/20

Toyota Gazoo Racing has signed Thomas Laurent as its test and reserve driver for the 2019/20 FIA World Endurance Championship.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed a strong season in WEC and currently sits third in the overall championship standings with one victory and three podium finishes for Rebellion Racing.

Laurent will participate in pre-season test sessions for Toyota to assist with development of the squad’s TSO50 ahead of what is set to be its final season in the LMP1 class.

“It is an honour to become an official Toyota Gazoo Racing driver, joining a manufacturer team for the first time in my career,” said Laurent.

“Thank you to everyone who has made this possible. My focus at the moment is to enjoy a successful end to the WEC season with my current team at Le Mans, but naturally I am looking forward to driving the TS050 HYBRID again and being part of a World Championship-winning team.”

Totyota team president Hisatake Murata added: “I am pleased to welcome Thomas to Toyota Gazoo Racing. He is a very talented and consistent driver, which is particularly impressive considering he is still a young man.

“Based on his performances so far, I am sure he will continue his rapid development and become a real star of endurance racing for many years to come. Everyone in the team is excited to see his progress.”

The only change to Toyota’s driver line-up for the 2019/20 season sees Brendon Hartley replace Fernando Alonso following the two-time F1 champion’s impending departure.