Kamui Kobayashi is back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car for a testing session in France with Haas. Eleven years after his last full season in the sport, the Japanese driver has once again made headlines
Kobayashi took to the track at the Paul Ricard Circuit, driving the Haas VF-23—the team’s 2023 challenger—in what was a private test. While not part of a comeback plan, the test marked a symbolic and emotional return for the former F1 racer.
Kobayashi’s Formula 1 career spanned five seasons, starting with Toyota in 2009, followed by three years at Sauber (2010–2012), and concluding with Caterham in 2014—a team that folded at the end of that same year. His standout moment remains a remarkable podium finish at his home Grand Prix in Japan in 2012 with Sauber.
The test at Le Castellet, a circuit that hosted Formula 1 from 2018 to 2022, was reportedly a special opportunity granted to him by Toyota.
Sharing his experience on Instagram with a touch of humor, Kamui wrote:“A big thank you to Haas and Toyota Gazoo Racing. It’s been a pleasure driving this beast again after 11 years. Also, shoutout to my neck, which held up surprisingly well over these past two days “.
So why this test? While there are no plans for an F1 comeback, the session was more of a goodwill gesture, orchestrated by Toyota. In 2024, Toyota and Haas entered into a broader collaboration. While Haas will continue to use Ferrari power units through 2026, Toyota has agreed to support the American team with its technical expertise. This strategic partnership comes under the guidance of Ayao Komatsu, Haas’ Japanese team principal, with Ferrari closely monitoring developments.
Photo: Toyota Gazoo Racing, KAMUI KOBAYASHI X
