Kobayashi Targets Lotus F1 Seat in 2010

Back in 2008, Japan had 2 car makers investing millions in their Formula One operations. Two years later, in 2010, neither Honda nor Toyota will make the grid, giving the F1 fans in the country few reasons to watch the grand prix races next year. Hadn't it been for Bernie Ecclestone securing the future of the Japanese Grand Prix this week (for the upcoming 3 years), the F1 audience in Japan would have most likely taken a dramatic fall.

However, despite Toyota's withdrawal from the series, the chances of having a Japanese driver racing in the series next year are not completely over. As it seems, Kamui Kobayashi, the driver who impressed the most in the closing couple of stages of the 2009 season, is eyeing a seat with Lotus F1 Team next year.

“Obviously, my place at Toyota is lost. I was close to signing a contract for 2010, but there are four new teams and still options. If I could choose a team I would choose Lotus,” said the Japanese driver in an interview with the French press.

It's already a well-known fact that 23-year old Kobayashi has already remained fund-less ahead of the 2010 season. His sponsorship money don't even cover a seat in the GP2 Series (F1's feeder championship), which means he'll have to secure his future elsewhere, outside racing.

Before the Toyota board of directors made their decision to withdraw from the sport, Kobayashi fought hard to impress the Cologne officials, practically competing for his future in racing. When asked about the reporters how he plans to earn his money if he doesn't get to secure a racing spot in Formula One, Kobayashi jokingly answered he'll head back to Japan and work in the sushi restaurant owned by his father.

It is believed, however, that Toyota will help both him and protege Kazuki Nakajima into finding a racing commitment for the 2010 season, even if not necessarily in Formula One.