Summary: Kobayashi continues to impress, Toyota ends well

The final Grand Prix of the season was synonymous with a race without real stakes. Only McLaren and Ferrari were still competing for 3rd place in the constructors’ standings. Jarno Trulli, in one of his last races for Toyota, finished 7th after starting from the 3rd row in 6th position.

His Japanese teammate, meanwhile, impressed the entire paddock once again. 9th at the Brazilian Grand Prix, known to be very challenging, the Japanese driver finished in 6th place, achieving this in only his 2nd Formula 1 race. Better than Trulli, therefore.

Jarno Trulli finishes in the overall standings in 8th place with 32.5 points. Glock 10th with 24 points. And Kobayashi 18th with 3 points. The Toyota team finishes 5th behind Brawn GP, Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari with 59.5 points.

Jarno Trulli – 7th:

«It wasn’t an easy race for me. I got a good start and had to fight against the BMWs in the first lap, which was very exciting. During the first stint, my rear tires had degraded significantly, and I had to brake later, which, of course, became a problem. I pushed as hard as possible, setting good lap times to stay in the top 6. In the end, I finished in 7th place, which isn’t bad, and for the team, it’s a good result. Obviously, Kamui [Kobayashi] drove really well, and I’m happy for him, he deserves this result.»

Kamui Kobayashi – 6th:

This was a very good race for me. At the start, I was able to overtake Räikkönen, and that was a godsend, because otherwise, I would never have been able to finish my race so well. The team did a great job with the strategy, and the single pit stop allowed me to finish in the points. I certainly didn’t expect to be racing in Formula 1 this year, and I want to thank Toyota for this opportunity. My goal was to be in the points, but I am very surprised to finish so well. It’s a fantastic result, and I am extremely happy.

Tadashi Yamashina – Team Principal:

« It was a very good result for us. Having two drivers in the points is extraordinary. Kamui did an amazing job, and we are very proud of him, but Jarno also fought hard to achieve this result. This year, the team did a brilliant job. It was a tough season, but we ended it on a positive note, so thanks to everyone in the team, as well as our sponsors and our fans. I would like to congratulate the race organizers who did a great job creating this incredible venue. Finally, I congratulate Brawn GP and Jenson Button who accomplished great things this season. »