Kobayashi – Caterham: “Our lap times are similar to a GP2”

Even though the Caterham team was the fastest and most present on track among the Renault-powered teams during the Bahrain tests, its lack of pace and speed is pointed out by Kamui Kobayashi, who is concerned about the progress still to be made. Indeed, last week, the best time of a green single-seater (1:39.855), set by the former Toyota and Sauber driver, was more than six seconds off the benchmark established by Nico Rosberg and his Mercedes (1:33.283): “We don’t have race pace,” the Japanese driver notes. “In these conditions, at this moment, we might as well be using a GP2. It’s like that. Our lap times are similar to a GP2. We have a lot of problems with the car, and we’re going to have to work a lot. If we had to race now, I think we wouldn’t be at the level to be in Formula 1.”

However, the Japanese comeback is trying to stay optimistic and plans to take advantage of the last days of testing to make progress: « When I look at the baseline times and what we are capable of, it’s incredible because the potential is there. We need to work a lot and take many more steps. We will try to improve. I just need to believe in them, and we will see what happens in Melbourne. »

But the problems encountered by Caterham seem multiple and difficult to fix in a few days. Kobayashi is already expecting a complicated start to the season: « There are many new elements. We had power issues and had to stop [the tests]. During the races, we need maximum power and recovery. It is our primary goal. It is very important for us not to waste time. We must react now, otherwise, we will be very weak. I believe the next four-day tests will be very important for everyone, and for our team in particular. Furthermore, the guys at Renault also have a lot to do. »

Difficult under these conditions to hide concern for the driver who joined the team this season after a year away from Formula 1 circuits: « When we look at our lap times, we have to be worried. I can’t be happy with the situation. We need to improve our times and ensure we can finish a race. We have limited time, but we must do everything possible. »

Despite these rather harsh comments on the condition of his single-seater, Kobayashi is still quite happy to be with Caterham, a team he believes is not lacking in talent and resources: « We respect each other mutually, and we will try to reach our goals and improve by working very hard. It’s just that not everything is working properly at the moment. It’s not what we expected. I don’t think our car has a big problem, but it’s very difficult to see what we can do in terms of performance. Everyone is frustrated. We cannot follow the established program at the moment. Everyone is doing their maximum, and I know the guys are doing everything they can. We are working hard. All the guys are doing this, and I believe we can achieve something. »