Kamui got a great offer from Ferrari for another year in WEC, but declined.
He's now driving for free at Caterham and hopes to help the team.
" …
After a year on the sideline, in which he took part in the World Endurance Championship with Ferrari, Kobayashi will contest this year's Championship having signed with Caterham.
"I have to say they're not really happy about my decision. But I said to Stefano [Domenicali], 'This is my dream, to be in Formula 1, and I think this is the last chance to be a race driver'," he told Sky Sports F1.
"He gave me a good offer but unfortunately I had to decide this way. This is all my decision and definitely I had to say to Stefano thanks for all the support last year. It was a very great experience for me but I'm here for Formula 1, not for driving GT."
Kobayashi also revealed that he won't be paid by Caterham, such was his determination to be back on the grid.
"I'm driving for free, it is my decision," he told Autosport. It is just my approach. I want to do this job. This appeals to Tony [Fernandes], this was the message to Tony and he is happy about that. I want to help the team. I don't care about the money. I want to be successful in my life and I want to bring the team back successfully in my goals."
http://www.planetf1.com/driver/3213/9130914/Kobayashi-turned-down-Ferrari-offer
I hope he didn't burn any bridges with Ferrari, but I fully understand his decision and now it's clear why Caterham picked him. He's experienced, probably brings money and won't cost them a penny.
??? Its McLarens house color, like yellow for Ferrari. It has more legacy than any sponsor induced livery.
I know that, but I don't see it that way, when it comes to F1. It also reminds me of Arrows, which might be fitting after all.
e: And it's official. the Bully left the team.
The Frenchman had led Lotus since January 2010 and helped the team secure fourth place in last year's Constructors' Championship.
"Lotus F1 Team has never stood still and we head into what promises to be an exciting 2014 season with an innovative new car, new partners and a new management structure at Enstone," said Lopez.
"Great things have been achieved over the past years and we need to continue this momentum.
"With this in mind, we are proud to announce that we have concluded an agreement with YotaPhone and its shareholders. YotaPhone shareholders will become important partners to Genii and YotaPhone a sponsor to the Lotus F1 team this year.
"We thank Eric for all his hard work over the past four years and we are confident we can continue to fight as one of the top teams in Formula 1 over the seasons ahead."
Lopez is now the new team principal with the team revealing that he "combine his position on the board with the role of Team Principal with immediate effect."
http://www.planetf1.com/driver/3213/9130792/Boullier-leaves-Lotus