A new face behind the wheel of Haas: after 11 years, Kamui Kobayashi is back in F1 for a test at Paul Ricard. The Japanese driver, who raced in the Circus from 2009 to 2014, has always been very popular among Japanese fans and beyond. A driver of great talent – despite limited opportunities to shine in the top series – he later found his ideal role in the WEC, becoming a leading figure for Toyota.
There are names that, when browsing the history of Formula 1, appear as little more than fleeting appearances. Crystal-clear talents who, in a complex and ruthless world like the top tier, struggle to emerge despite showing their skills on track. Kamui Kobayashi is certainly one of these: five seasons between Toyota (initially in 2009, only for the last two races), Sauber (2010-2013), and Caterham (2014), but only one podium achieved.
A podium that remains close to the hearts of Japanese fans, earned at the 2012 Suzuka Grand Prix. But while the Circus cars were stingy with Kobayashi, success came elsewhere. His record includes a victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans (2021, with Toyota), two wins at the 24 Hours of Daytona (2019 and 2020, with Cadillac), and two WEC titles (2020 and 2021).
Kobayashi’s return: test in France with Haas
“I came here to have some fun with this beast after eleven years,” Kamui Kobayashi wrote on his social profiles. “Thanks to Toyota and Haas for this opportunity! But I also have to thank my neck for the last two days!”
For him, an experience behind the wheel of the VF-23 – the Haas car that raced in the 2023 Formula 1 season – at Paul Ricard, France, which hosted the top series between 2018 and 2022.
Getting to hear the VF-23 again last week 😍🔊#HaasF1 #F1 | @en_toyota @kamui_kobayashi pic.twitter.com/W3Xk2HLnvP
— MoneyGram Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) June 5, 2025
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