Kobayahsi positive about Valencia return

by Jack Lamure on Jun 17th, 2011

Sauber star Kamui Kobayashi says he's feeling good ahead of next weekend's European Grand Prix as the Japanese racer looks to extend his record of six straight races among the points scorers. Kobayahsi is positive ahead of the Valencia event having starred at the circuit last year, with a final corner pass on Fernando Alonso catching the eye of many paddock observers.

“Last year we had a good race performance and strategy in Valencia," said the 24-year-old . "I enjoyed the race a lot, especially the last few laps when I had fresh tyres and the others didn’t. After qualifying had been disappointing because I was only 18th, we were very happy when I finished seventh in the race.

"This year we have a better car overall, and we have proved we are still good in terms of our strategies. I’m quite confident for the European Grand Prix and want to make the most of it. In the past it hasn’t been easy to overtake on this street circuit, but I think with DRS and KERS it will be an exciting race for the spectators and us. I also like the atmosphere there a lot, and Valencia is one of the more exciting places we go to."

And, as ever, Kobayahsi made a point of singling out something special about the upcoming race's host city.

"You can find good food there,” Kamui said of the eastern Spanish municipality.

Sergio Pérez meanwhile says he is feeling fully fit ahead of Valencia following his withdrawal from the Canadian Grand Prix, where he was still feeling the aftereffects of his Monaco qualifying shunt.

”I feel perfectly well and I’m very much looking forward to racing in Valencia," said the Mexican. "Without doubt it is an advantage that I know this track well. In 2009 I was on the podium after both GP2 races and last year I had pole position.”

Sauber currently sit an impressive sixth in the constructors' championship, with only F1 heavyweights Red Bull, McLaren, Ferrari, Renault and Mercedes having scored more points in the opening seven races of 2011.