Lee White

Lee White, President and General Manager of TRD, U.S.A. (Toyota Racing Development), responded to NASCAR's technical bulletin which amended the NASCAR Nationwide Series Rule Book in an attempt to bring the Toyota engines in line with the other manufacturers.

"We're extremely disappointed in NASCAR's decision. In our opinion, there is no technical justification to penalize the Toyota engine utilized in the Nationwide Series. Toyota always has, and will continue to, abide by all NASCAR-mandated engine specifications and the Nationwide engine was built strictly to NASCAR specifications.

"The success of the Toyota Camry this year in the Nationwide Series is the result of hard work and achievement by all of our race teams -- Braun Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing, Germain Racing and Michael Waltrip Racing -- working in conjunction with TRD U.S.A. (Toyota Racing Development). All the tireless efforts by our teams, TRD and Triad during the off-season, at pre-season testing and during the first half of the year, combined with extremely talented drivers, have produced exceptional results.

"Despite this setback, we will continue to work diligently to keep our Nationwide teams competitive. Our hope remains that a Toyota team or driver will be rewarded with a championship at the conclusion of this year.

"Unfortunately, the decision by NASCAR could be more far-reaching than simply mandating Toyota to adjust its Nationwide engine. The real impact will be felt by the Toyota teams as they adjust to the change, work to remain competitive for the remainder of this season and attempt to line up their sponsorships for next year."