Microsoft teams up with Toyota to sponsor racing team for 2017 World Rally Championship

Microsoft and Toyota have announced a partnership to help sponsor a racing team for the 2017 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) series. Microsoft will serve as the technology partner for the team.

Today's press release revealed the details of Microsoft's involvement with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRC rally team. The company will support the team in a number of areas, including:

  • Development of a data analysis platform to gather, visualize and analyse various data related to driving which will be utilised in race activities.
  • Creation of a team information-sharing system to allow team members to collaborate and share various materials such as images and videos efficiently and effectively using a cloud service.
  • Enhancement of communication with fans through providing services utilizing the cloud and using Microsoft's display devices to provide them with a front-row motorsports experience.

This new announcement follows Microsoft's previous technology partnership with NASCAR, which included the company working with the stock car racing league to develop a Windows 10 race management app.

John Callaham