Concerns over Toyota's commitment to Formula 1 were answered today as the company announced its immediate withdraw from the sport.

"TMC (Toyota Motor Corporation), which had viewed its participation in F1 as contributing to the prosperity of automotive culture, remained dedicated to competing at the pinnacle of motor sports even in the face of the abrupt economic changes that started last year," the team said in a statement. "However, when considering TMC's motorsports actitives next year and beyond from a comprehensive mid-term viewpoint reflecting the current severe economic realities, TMC decided to withdraw from F1"

While the company had been rumored to be on the bubble for some time, the decision still had an element of surprise about it. Much of that may be due to the team signing the Concorde Agreement, tying it to the sport through 2012.

This would seem to assure BMW Sauber's buyers of a place on the 2010 grid. Whether that will be a 26-car grid remains to be seen. AUTOSPORT reports Renault is discussing its F1 future today as well.

Kolles officially out at Force India

Colin Kolles has severed ties with Force India, AUTOSPORT reports.

The veteran of Midland and Spyker was replaced as team principal by owner Vijay Mallya last year, but had been serving in a director position.

The team thanked Kolles in a statement.

Silly season

While Toyota's exit changes things a bit, grandprix.com has an interesting analysis of Who goes where in 2010?