Kobayashi says goodbye to the 2013 season!
Kamui Kobayashi gives up on racing in Formula 1 next year. Despite having eight million euros in funding, the Japanese driver was unable to secure a spot on the starting grid for the next season. However, he leaves the door open for 2014.
Theoretically, with only three seats left to fill for next season – one at Caterham, one at Marussia, and the last one at Force India – Kamui Kobayashi seems to have no chance of securing one for 2013.
This is what he revealed Monday evening on his website: « I was able to bring in a minimum budget of 8 million euros. Considering the short amount of time I had, it’s a massive response that proves there is great potential with Japanese companies. Unfortunately, time is too short, and I am not able to secure myself a competitive seat in Formula 1 for 2013. »
The Japanese driver, who has certainly not underperformed this season with Sauber, is, of course, very disappointed with this outcome: « I have to admit that it’s very sad and I’m sorry for the fans and Japanese companies that have supported me. But I am still confident about making it in 2014. »
The funding obtained by Kobayashi will help him secure a seat in 2014. This is his choice as he does not wish to turn, in the short term, to another discipline: « I am starting to look at what is the best option for 2013 and also for 2014. My main priority is to secure a seat in Formula 1 in 2014. I have no interest in racing in other categories. I will make an announcement as soon as I have made a decision for 2013. »
