By Nick Sparkes
April 7 2006

Toyota has warned that the manufacture will withdraw from Formula One if they are unwelcome. That’s the claim from Toyota’s John Howett who feels the FIA’s position is unclear over whether to have manufactures or independent teams competing in Formula One. Howett said; "Are we welcome or not? If we're really not welcome it should be made clear. The FIA has to understand that we are being asked to commit to F1 until the end of 2012 without giving any indication of whether we're wanted."

This statement comes after a difficult couple of days for Toyota after sacking their Technical Director Mike Gascoyne. Its also become clear that Toyota are under more pressure than ever to get results as the team are still yet to win a Grand Prix, with rumoured the highest budget in the Formula One paddock. But Howett damped any questions over Toyotas motivation.

"We're prepared to commit to F1, but we need certain core values to remain, that means for example that it has to remain the pinnacle of motorsport. If F1 can't remain the pinnacle, the board will have to decide on the company's participation."

Toyota are also one of 22 teams that submitted an entry for the 2008 Formula One season.