Thursday, December 17, 2009

Kobayashi lands at Sauber for 2010

Former Toyota reserve driver Kamui Kobayashi will race on in Formula 1 next year after singing a deal with the Sauber team for 2010. Kobayashi impressed with his performances in Brazilian and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix as a stand in for a then injured Timo Glock. Although he had a lackluster showings in the GP2 Series, when he stepped into a F1 car, he showed speed, no fear and a fighting spirit reminiscent of fellow Japanese countryman Takuma Sato, (who is looking to re-enter F1) while scoring points in his Abu Dhabi drive.

Sauber team principal, Peter Sauber remarked, "I’m very much looking forward to working together with Kamui. In the final two Grand Prix of last season he was granted an unexpected chance to show his skills, and he made impressive use of it. Particularly in the Abu Dhabi race he demonstrated not only that he can drive fast and aggressively, but also his ability to successfully implement a strategy. I am convinced he has a great deal of potential and will be able to make the most of it in our team."

Sauber has a eye for talent. Most notably his 2001 choice of Kimi Raikkonen amidst great criticism of Raikkonen lack of experience. We all know how turned out. I am not saying Kobayashi is Raikkonen by any stretch. However as with any young driver, time will tell what we will be saying about him.

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