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Sauber adds Kobayashi to driver lineup

Thu 17th, December 2009

Hinwil, Switzerland (Sports Network) - The Sauber Formula One team has named Japan's Kamui Kobayashi as one of its drivers, even though the Swiss team currently doesn't hold an official spot on the 2010 F1 grid.

After announcing their intentions to withdraw from F1 competition at the end of this season, BMW sold their team back to original founder Peter Sauber. Throughout the sale, the team was not a confirmed entry to the 2010 season, but the International Automobile Federation (FIA) said earlier this month they will be granted a grid slot -- taking the place of the departing Toyota team -- subject to them signing the Concorde Agreement that governs the sport.

Kobayashi most recently served as test and reserve driver for Toyota. The 23- year-old driver substituted for the injured Timo Glock at Toyota for the final two races of the season. He finished sixth in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

"Ever since the start of my career, I have dreamed of racing in Formula One," Kobayashi said. "Now this dream has come true. I am very happy that my two races in 2009 have earned me a cockpit place. I will do my very best for Peter Sauber's team, and I am proud to be able to carry on flying the Japanese flag in Formula One."

Kobayashi won this year's GP2 Asia Series championship.