Kamui hopes website can save F1 seat

Kamui Kobayashi is so determined to remain in F1 that he has set up a website which he hopes will help raise funds to keep him on the grid…

Kamui Kobayashi is so determined to remain in Formula One that he has set up a website which he hopes will help raise funds to keep him on the grid.

The Japanese driver, who made his F1 debut in 2009 with Toyota, is without a race seat for the 2013 season after Sauber opted to replace him with Mexican Esteban Gutierrez.

Kobayashi, though, has not giving up hope of lining up on the grid next year as the likes of Force India, Caterham and Marussia still have seats available.

“I think still some seats that are available so we try to get a seat,” he is quoted as saying by Reuters. “If we can find some sponsors I think it is easier.”

He added: “This is Formula One. Everybody looks really worried but I don’t really worry at the moment, I try to work hard to get sponsors and find out what’s available for next year’s seat.”

The 26-year-old, who claimed his maiden F1 podium at his home race at Suzuka this year, has turned to the internet to raise some funds, hoping fans will use www.kamui-support.com to help his cause. Those who make donations will receive special wristbands.
“Suzuka had more than 100,000 people at the race… over the three days we had 200,000,” he said.

“I think we have a lot of potential to get some money from the fans as well. It has been just two days but it’s going to help my career for sure.”