Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda accepted the 2023 Spirit of Le Mans Award last week after initially refusing to accept in the wake of a Balance of Performance-related spat between Toyota and the Le Mans race organisers.
The award, which recognizes individuals who embody the values of endurance racing, was presented to Toyoda San, also known as racer ‘Morizo’ last Friday by ACO President Pierre Fillon.
“I sincerely apologize to President Fillon and all involved for my inappropriate behaviour last year,” Akio Toyoda said.
“I believe the person who receives the “Spirit of Le Mans” award should receive it on behalf of everyone involved in motorsports. This includes drivers, engineers, mechanics, and all the support staff, including those in marketing.
“Last year, however, I felt too much influence from politics, so I couldn’t accept it.
“However, while watching the final hour of this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours race, I honestly felt, “This is the Le Mans where I’m honoured to receive the award. And if I may be forgiven, even if I have to bow my head, I would like to humbly receive the award.
“I believe that the Spirit of Le Mans is a highly prestigious award with a long tradition. I will continue striving to contribute to motorsports so that everyone will say, “We were glad to have awarded it to Morizo.”
Pierre Fillon added that he fully understood the reasons behind Toyoda’s decision to refuse the award in 2023.
“I am very happy to be able to personally present the Spirit of Le Mans award. We originally intended to give this award last year, but we fully understand the reasons. The past is the past, and I am truly delighted to have this opportunity today.
“Mr. Toyoda, also known as racer “Morizo” has made various efforts and significant contributions to motorsports, Le Mans, and endurance racing, and I am confident that he is deserving of this award. It is a great honour to be able to officially present this to him.
“What’s important in motorsports, and also part of the DNA of Le Mans, is to give manufacturers a platform to explore the possibilities of
innovation. I believe it offers an opportunity to think about how future road cars should be.
“This has been the story of Le Mans for the past 100 years, and many innovations have emerged over the years. I hope Toyota will continue to lead the way, and I would like to think about the future of mobility together. Moving towards carbon neutrality, I hope we can advance together.”
