Toyota's involvement with the IAAF began at the 9th IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Paris, France, in 2003 and the company also supported the 11th IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Osaka, Japan, in 2007.

The first World Championships in Athletics was held in Helsinki, Finland in 1983. The competition was initially held once every four years, the year preceding the Olympic Games. However, ever since the 4th World Championships in Stuttgart in 1993, the event has been held every two years, preceding or following the Olympic Games.

The Toyota Prius - the world's best-selling hybrid passenger car – was the natural choice to serve as the lead car for the men's and women's marathon events. In addition, a wide range of Corolla, Avensis and Previa models were used during the championships. Lexus models were used to transport the Chairman of the Olympic Committee, the President of IAAF and Prince Albert of Monaco. All of the Toyota silver-coloured vehicles were sporting official IAAF Helsinki 2005 logos.

In addition to being responsible for the Championships’ official cars, Toyota’s name was shown on the bibs worn by all female athletes and on the official boards in stadium and on all official designations.