Fans raise £1m to fund a race seat for Kamui Kobayashi

Fans have donated almost £1m to keep Kamui Kobayashi in Formula 1.

The Japanese racer is without a drive for 2013, after Sauber confirmed Nico Hulkenberg and Esteban Gutierrez for next season.

The 26-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I hope. I'm talking with another team. If I don't talk then I'm retired, just like that.

"It's no surprise. Sauber announced another driver and so I talk to another team. This is normal.

"I'm working very hard to get sponsors. Hopefully time is not too late."

Drivers are increasingly reliant on funding from sponsors to secure a race seat.

Kobayashi finished 12th in the drivers' standings.

Written by
Sian Cowper