Timo Glock is set to return to Formula One after signing a multi-year deal with Toyota.
German GP2 champion back in F1 after three years away
GP2 champion Timo Glock is set to return to Formula One after signing a multi-year deal with Toyota.
Glock, who competed in four grands prix for Jordan in 2004 and scored points on his debut in Canada, raced in the American Champ Car series before spending the last two years competing in F1's feeder class.
The German impressed, finishing fourth in 2006 behind Lewis Hamilton before claiming five race victories on his way to winning this year's title.
His results last season also earned the 25-year-old a test driver role with BMW Sauber.
However, it is Toyota who have succeeded in signing the German as a race driver, with Glock replacing compatriot Ralf Schumacher.
Challenge
"It's a great feeling to be a Formula One race driver again and I am really looking forward to this new challenge," Glock said.
"I have worked hard over the past few years to get this opportunity and I must say I am grateful to Toyota for having faith in me.
"From what I have seen of the team at the track I am confident we will be able to work well together to move forward.
"Even though I have not raced in Formula One since 2004, I have tested quite regularly so I expect it will take very little time for me to get back in the groove.
"I have been lucky enough to race and succeed in several different championships in my career but my goal has always been to become a full-time Formula One race driver. I believe this experience has made me stronger as a driver and as a person.
"Of course, to return to Formula One racing as GP2 Series champion is a real honour and we've all seen how well Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton have performed as champions so that is very encouraging. I hope I can also make a strong impression next season."
Toyota team principal Tadashi Yamashina added: "It is with great pleasure that we confirm Timo Glock will race for Panasonic Toyota Racing in 2008. I am convinced Timo has the potential to help this team move forward and achieve its aims.
"Timo has great experience of motorsport in several different categories and he reinforced his reputation by winning the highly competitive GP2 Series, which we have already seen is fantastic preparation for Formula One.
"He has demonstrated a fighting spirit and good race craft in GP2 so we believe he is the right man for the job."
Glock's move to Toyota comes only days after the Contract Recognition Board ruled that he was free to walk away from his previous testing agreement with BMW Sauber and join the team.
