Kamui Kobayashi is eagerly anticipating his Formula One debut when he replaces Timo Glock at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Japanese driver looking forward to Toyota outing
Kamui Kobayashi is eagerly anticipating his Formula One debut when he replaces Timo Glock at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Glock was ruled out of the race after suffering a cracked vertebra in a crash during qualifying for the Japanese GP last weekend.
The German missed Friday practice at the same race having fallen ill, which allowed Kobayashi some time in the 2009 Toyota, experience that will be very valuable in Sao Paulo.
"This is an incredible opportunity for me to make my Grand Prix debut but of course it is a pity for Timo as I know how much he was looking forward to getting back to racing," said Kobayashi.
"Fortunately for me I had some time in the car on Friday in Suzuka and, even though that was in the wet, it will be very helpful for me this weekend.
"I have never driven at Interlagos before but I know the layout from computer games and television so I don't think it will take too long to learn."
The 23-year-old is under no illusions about the task he faces, especially having seen a veteran racer and fellow test driver Luca Badoer struggle when given a race seat for Ferrari earlier in the season.
Kobayashi refuses to put any pressure on himself, aiming only to finish the race and enjoy himself.
"It's going to be a tough weekend but I feel ready for the challenge and I know the team is supporting me 100%," he explained.
"A few days ago I wasn't even expecting to be racing this weekend so it's impossible to set any targets. I just want to do myself proud and complete the race without any problems; anything after that is a bonus," the Toyota driver added.
