The veteran Japanese driver’s second attempt in the premier stock car series didn’t go as well as he had hoped.
The weekend at COTA was filled with thrilling races throughout the field. The driver took the checkered flag after a fierce battle with JGR in the final stages of the race. At the other end of the field, the driver was racing for the 23XI team and finished in a disappointing 30th place after several incidents ruined his race.
Kamui Kobayashi had qualified in 25th place for the race on Sunday. Despite this, the Japanese driver had an exceptional race in the early stages and made passes in all directions. However, his race unraveled when, on lap 26, the driver spun him out as in his previous encounter in Indy. This hindered the 37-year-old driver’s race and caused him to drop down the field, eliminating his chances of a top position.
“I mean, he just hit me” @kamui_kobayashi when spun out by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Kobayashi also responds whether he will return to NASCAR in 2024: 📹 @WyattGametime pic.twitter.com/06a6grS4sz
The driver of car no. 50 felt infuriated by how his race unfolded, as later in the race he was fighting for position and experienced the same outcome of being spun out by his rival. This ruined the Toyota driver’s race and he was disappointed with the result of finishing in 30th place.
The Le Mans winner has a vast experience in various forms of motorsport. Furthermore, his second attempt in the series may not have been as successful as he had hoped, but it must have provided valuable lessons for the 37-year-old driver.
Kobayashi stated that he currently has no plans to continue competing in the series. However, this may change if an opportunity arises for the Japanese driver. In addition, the former Formula 1 driver expressed his gratitude to his team and sponsors, who made his participation in the series possible.
Despite this disappointing race, Kobayashi can take comfort in the fact that he was able to keep up with the leaders at various points. Furthermore, it is expected that the experienced Japanese driver will make a comeback to the sport soon and showcase his racing skills once again.
