Kobayashi does not know home track too well

Kobayashi

(PVM) Although it is the venue of his home Japanese Grand Prix, Kamui Kobayashi has revealed that he does not know the Suzuka race track very well.

Speaking ahead of the 15th round of the 2011 Formula 1 world championship, Kobayashi admitted, “For me this year will only be the third time I have ever raced at the Suzuka circuit. Last year was my first time in a Formula One car, and before that I just did one Formula Toyota race in 2003 when I was 17-years old."

“Because of this I don’t know it that well, and certainly most of the other drivers know it better than I do. Nevertheless Suzuka is one of my favorite circuits, and I also think one of the best tracks as well. Racing there is exciting and cool," mused the popular Sauber driver.

As for every driver there is an extra edge racing on home soil, in front of his home fans and even family members, “It is always very exciting going back to Japan to race, but when I went back last year it had been a long time since I had raced there and it felt especially good to be there. There were so many fans around and that in itself was very impressive," said Kobayashi.

Suzuka is a popular track with most of the drivers, a fact that does not escape 25 year old Kobayashi, “I think every driver likes it. It is really enjoyable to drive on if you get in the right rhythm. The S Curves – two, three, four, five and six – are my favorites. This is my home country and so many fans are waiting, so I really think it is great to do."

“I believe Japan is very important for Formula One and I think we can put on a good show for the sport, which is a good thing for the Japanese fans. I think my parents may be coming to see me race there as they came last year," said Kobayashi who lies 12th in the championship with 32 points.