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F1: Kamui Kobayashi eyes F1 lifeline at Lotus

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

Kamui Kobayashi is not yet booking his flight back to his father's sushi restaurant.

The Japanese rookie, who impressed during Toyota's last two grands prix, has said he will need to return to Japan if he doesn't stay in F1 in 2010 because he has "no budget" for GP2.

"Obviously, my place at Toyota is lost," the 23-year-old is quoted as saying by the French press.

"I was close to signing a contract for 2010, but there are four new teams and still options," Kobayashi added. "If I could choose a team I would choose Lotus."

He also revealed that, in the wake of Toyota's announcement, the carmaker has offered to assist both him and Kazuki Nakajima find alternate employment for 2010.



photo:Wri2
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
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  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada