Official: Kobayashi joins Sauber in 2010

Kamui Kobayashi will participate in Formula 1 races next year as he has signed a contract with the Sauber team for 2010. The Japanese driver made a strong impression during two Grand Prix for Toyota, in Brazil and Abu Dhabi. He impressed particularly in the way he fought against Jenson Button, the 2009 champion.

His performances seemed sufficient to secure a future with the Toyota team for 2010, but his plans fell through when the Japanese manufacturer decided to leave the sport. However, the weeks that followed were intense with negotiations, and eventually, Kobayashi signed a contract with Sauber to join the team that took over BMW’s operations.

Speaking about his new situation, Kobayashi stated: « Since the beginning of my career, I have dreamed of racing in Formula 1. Now, this dream has become a reality. I am very happy that my two races in 2009 have offered me this driving position. I will do my best for Peter Sauber’s team and I am proud to wave the Japanese flag in Formula 1. »

The team boss specifically stated that his decision was made considering that Kobayashi had made a strong impression during the last two races of the year. Yet, before that, he had not been in an F1 car for several months.

« I am very eager to work with Kamui, » said Sauber. « During the last two Grand Prix of the season, he had an unexpected chance to showcase his skills. He knew how to perfectly use this opportunity. »

« And particularly during the race in Abu Dhabi. He demonstrated not only that he could drive fast and aggressively but also his ability to implement a good strategy. I am convinced that he has potential and will be able to bring out the best in our team. »

Kobayashi revealed after Abu Dhabi that if he couldn’t find a seat in F1 for next year, his lack of money would lead him to return home to Japan to work in his father’s sushi restaurant… A beautiful fate!