Monisha Kaltenborn says Kamui Kobayashi’s podium at Suzuka makes no difference – Formula 1 news
Chief executive officer of Sauber, Monisha Kaltenborn, believes that Kamui Kobayashi’s podium at the Japanese Grand Prix makes no difference to their judgement.
She believes that they have a developed a better understanding of the driver over the time and with his input in development of the car.
The contract of Kobayashi has not been confirmed by the Sauber team and the chief executive officer believes that they would not be finalising their decision with his performance in one grand prix. They are fully aware with the strengths of their driver
and they also know with the efforts he has given for the development of their car. Kaltenborn said that their decision will be based upon collective performances of the veteran driver rather than the last Japanese podium.
She said, “We'd already said before the race actually that we don't really want to boil it down to this one race and how he does here. He's had a lot of input in to the development of this car so we can judge all that well and this podium is just so nice
for him because he's finally got it through and deserves it.”
She told that they have their internal evaluation process and they have been judging driver throughout the season however they do not want to make any hasty decision as they have ample time.
“Of course we've been looking at drivers and we are evaluating that internally but we won't rush ourselves in to any decision and we still have enough time in the season,” she added.
On the other hand the Sauber driver, Kobayashi, believes that his 3rd position at the Japanese GP will make a difference in the opinion of his team. He told that he enjoys driving under pressure as it adds to his performance. He believes that the last ten
laps at the Suzuka circuit were very tough for him. He added that he is not afraid of the pressure on the circuit.
Sauber has earlier dropped a hint that they would like to sign a contract with the seven times world champion Michael Schumacher however the veteran driver has announced retirement from Formula 1 in the next season. Whether the Japanese driver is able to
secure his way in the Sauber team for the next 2013 season, or not, still remains a question for the fans of Formula 1.
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