With the situation in the country developing into an even darker scenario – several reports in the international media suggest Japan might actually disappear due to the nuclear threat it has been subject to in recent days – Kobayashi's enthusiasm was hampered in the worst way possible. Needless to say, his F1 career is probably not the first thing on his mind right now.
“I must say the situation is really, really bad,” he said in a BMW Sauber preview of the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled next weekend in Melbourne.
“So many have lost their lives, become homeless, are without food and water in the cold winter, and have lost their loved ones. It is difficult to believe that a scenario worse than in any movie has become reality.”
“We need to stay together and we need help from all over the world. I am worried the whole country could disappear - it is just too awful. Since the earthquake and the tsunami news is getting worse every day, there is nothing positive to look forward to at the moment.”
“I feel I have to do something, I want to help - but in fact there is nothing I can do by myself. I think at least for the time being what I can do is to be focused and fully concentrate on the season's opening race in Melbourne. Originally I was looking forward to this with great joy. Now what I really want to do is my very best to achieve a good result, which perhaps can at least give the people in Japan a little bit of hope and positive news.”
Kobayashi's car in Australia, as will his teammate Sergio Perez', will feature a support message for the people of Japan reading “May our prayers reach the people in Japan.”
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