British Formula One team Williams has confirmed it is ending its engine supply deal with Toyota at the end of this season and will seek a new supplier for the 2010 season.
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The ending of the deal was expected because the agreement between the two expires at the end of this year.
Williams team principal Frank Williams said: “At a time of great difficulty for us as a team, Toyota stepped forward and agreed to supply us with engines for 2007 through to the end of 2009. Toyota has been a very decent partner and has always respected our independence and provided us with a first-rate technical product. We are proud that we have been able to work with such a great company and we are grateful to the team in Cologne for their support.”
Renault and Cosworth have both been suggested as possible replacements.
Toyota motorsport chief Tadashi Yamashina said in a statement: “We have enjoyed a productive working relationship with Williams and I believe both companies have benefited from that partnership. We respect the wishes of Williams to look for other opportunities.”
Brawn GP driver Rubens Barrichello meanwhile revealed he has had talks with Williams but has not yet signed with a new team for 2010. Barrichello currently trails championship leader and Brawn team-mate Jenson Button by 14 points ahead of his home race at Interlagos this weekend.
