Race and classic pictures

Kobayashi returns to F1 after 11 years with Haas

©X.com

Toyota Gazoo Racing WEC star Kamui Kobayashi made a surprise return to F1 after 11 years, testing a 2023-spec Haas car at Circuit Paul Ricard on Thursday thanks to the team’s partnership with the Japanese manufacturer.

The former Sauber and Caterham driver, who won the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2021, relished his track day with Haas.

“Bit of fun with this beast again after 11 years. Thank you for this opportunity, Toyota and Haas! Also big big thanks my neck last 2 days was strong,” he wrote on social media.

Despite a single F1 podium, his aggressive style left a lasting mark. After losing his Sauber seat in 2013 due to financial struggles and enduring a tough 2014 with Caterham, Kobayashi found success in WEC, shining with Toyota.

His Paul Ricard test, a nod to his enduring talent, showcased the 38-year-old’s unyielding passion and was promptly by his fans on X.

“Kamui’s still got it—pure joy watching him back in an F1 cockpit!” wrote one of his enthusiastic supporters.

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Denny 'the Bear' roars for the final time

Harking back once again to the days when Formula 1 used to hold races in…

1 hour ago

Rosberg Ventures hits full throttle with $100M fund close!

Nearly a decade after his dramatic exit from the pinnacle of motorsport, F1 world champion…

2 hours ago

Alpine releases Doohan ahead of 2026 F1 season

Alpine has drawn a firm line under Jack Doohan’s Formula 1 chapter, confirming that the…

4 hours ago

Jock Clear: Hamilton instant success at Ferrari 'would have belittled F1'

Last year, former Ferrari performance engineer Jock Clear watched Lewis Hamilton’s first season in red…

5 hours ago

Williams hands Martins test and development role for 2026

Victor Martins’ journey with Williams is entering a new and decisive chapter – one that…

21 hours ago

Hill and Herbert name their F1 ‘dark horses’ for 2026

Damon Hill and Johnny Herbert believe the 2026 season could spring a major surprise, with…

22 hours ago