The Haas TGR F1 Team continues to strengthen its connection with Japanese culture, announcing a unique and eye-catching initiative ahead of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix. Following its growing relationship with Toyota Gazoo Racing, the American outfit has now entered into a new partnership with TOHO Co., the iconic Japanese film production company responsible for creating Godzilla—one of the most famous cinematic monsters in history.
As a result of this collaboration, the Haas VF-26 cars will feature a special Godzilla-inspired livery at Suzuka, bringing together Formula 1 and one of Japan’s most recognizable pop culture symbols in a striking visual concept.
Haas strengthens its Japanese ties in 2026
Japan’s influence within the Haas TGR F1 Team continues to grow, both on and off the track. The team has emerged as one of the surprises of the early 2026 Formula 1 season, currently holding fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship standings, ahead of Red Bull, with 17 points compared to 12.
The announcement of a partnership with TOHO Co. marks another step in this direction. The company is globally renowned for its film productions, particularly the long-running Godzilla franchise, which has captivated audiences for decades across both cinema and television.
This collaboration will not be limited to a single race weekend but will extend across multiple events throughout the season. The first showcase will naturally take place at the Japanese Grand Prix, scheduled from March 27 to March 29 at the Suzuka Circuit.
Special VF-26 livery to be unveiled in Tokyo
The exact design of the new livery for the VF-26 cars driven by Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon has not yet been revealed. The official unveiling is set to take place on March 24 at Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, where fans and media will get their first look at the Godzilla-inspired color scheme.
The collaboration will extend beyond Suzuka, as Haas has also confirmed a second special livery featuring the same theme. This version will be used later in the season at the United States Grand Prix, scheduled from October 23 to October 25, which represents the team’s home race.
The timing of this second appearance is no coincidence, as it will also help promote the release of “Godzilla Minus Zero” in American cinemas, the latest installment in the franchise, set to debut on November 6.
Komatsu: “A unique opportunity for both Haas and TOHO”
“This is truly an exciting opportunity to introduce our brand to new audiences, and it is a first for both the TGR Haas F1 Team and TOHO,” said Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal of the TGR Haas F1 Team.
“It is an honor to bring a global icon like Godzilla into this sport and to create special initiatives in such an important year for the franchise. We want our fanbases to come together and celebrate with us, as there will be many opportunities for engagement throughout the season.”
TOHO: “Godzilla represents power and resilience”
“We are honored to announce this partnership between the TGR Haas F1 Team—a team that continues to push the limits of performance on the global Formula 1 stage—and Godzilla, a cultural icon that has continued to evolve for more than 70 years since first emerging from Japan,” said Keiji Ota, Senior Managing Executive Officer and Chief Godzilla Officer of TOHO Co., Ltd.
“Godzilla has become synonymous with unstoppable power and resilience, a spirit that strongly resonates with the TGR Haas F1 Team’s determination to constantly break new barriers.”
“Through this collaboration, get ready to see Godzilla unleashed on the fastest stage in the world! We promise to deliver an unprecedented experience that will excite fans of both Godzilla and the TGR Haas F1 Team across the globe.”
With liveries planned for both the high-speed curves of Suzuka and the technical sectors of COTA, the Godzilla project is set to be one of the most visual and talked-about partnerships of the year. It remains to be seen if the VF-26 can channel the “indomitable power” of its new mascot on the track, but for now, Haas is clearly winning the battle for the fans’ imagination.
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