Kamui Kobayashi returns to F1 testing: Haas revives a star after 11 years

Kamui Kobayashi, a former F1 podium finisher turned WEC standout, stunned fans by testing a 2023 Haas car at Circuit Paul Ricard, signaling a remarkable comeback fueled by his enduring passion and Toyota partnership.

Sources:
Motorsport Week
Updated 8h ago
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Sources: Motorsport Week
Kamui Kobayashi, the Toyota Gazoo Racing WEC star, made a remarkable return to Formula 1 testing after an 11-year hiatus, driving a 2023-spec Haas car at Circuit Paul Ricard. This opportunity arose through Haas's partnership with Toyota, marking a significant moment for the 38-year-old driver.

Kobayashi, known for his aggressive driving style and a single F1 podium, lost his Sauber seat in 2013 due to financial issues and faced a challenging 2014 season with Caterham. However, he found renewed success in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with Toyota.

"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," Kobayashi shared on social media, reflecting his excitement and physical readiness.

His test at Paul Ricard not only highlighted his enduring talent but also reignited fan enthusiasm, with many praising his unyielding passion on social media platforms.

This return underscores Haas's strategic move to leverage their partnership with Toyota and Kobayashi's persistent drive to compete at the highest level, potentially signaling further involvement in F1.

Stats & Quotes:
- 11 years since Kobayashi last tested an F1 car
- Age: 38 years old
- Known for aggressive driving and a single F1 podium
- Social media gratitude to Toyota and Haas

Kobayashi's comeback test is a testament to his lasting impact on motorsport and Haas's ambition to revive a star talent through collaboration with Toyota.
Sources: Motorsport Week
Kamui Kobayashi made a surprise return to Formula 1 after 11 years, testing a 2023-spec Haas car at Circuit Paul Ricard. The Toyota Gazoo Racing WEC star expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting his enduring passion and aggressive driving style that left a lasting mark in F1.
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The Headline

Kobayashi's surprise Haas F1 test after 11 years

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,
Kamui Kobayashi
Motorsport Week
Key Facts
  • Kamui Kobayashi made a surprise return to Formula 1 by testing a 2023-spec Haas F1 car at Circuit Paul Ricard on June 5, 2025.Motorsport Week
  • Haas F1 Team facilitated Kobayashi's return through their partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing.Motorsport Week
Key Stats at a Glance
Duration of Kobayashi's absence from F1
11 years
Motorsport Week
Model year of Haas F1 car tested by Kobayashi
2023-spec
Motorsport Week
Background Context

Kobayashi's F1 struggles and WEC success

Key Facts
  • Kobayashi lost his Sauber F1 seat in 2013 due to financial struggles, which impacted his early F1 career.Motorsport Week
  • 2014 was a challenging year for Kobayashi as he endured a difficult season with Caterham in Formula 1.Motorsport Week
  • Kobayashi achieved success in the World Endurance Championship driving for Toyota Gazoo Racing, where he became a standout star.Motorsport Week
Key Stats at a Glance
Year Kobayashi lost Sauber F1 seat
2013
Motorsport Week
Year of Kobayashi's tough season with Caterham
2014
Motorsport Week
Kobayashi's age during Paul Ricard test
38 years
Motorsport Week
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