Takashi Kobayashi

Takashi Kobayashi, born on November 8, 1987, is a Japanese racing driver currently active in both Formula Nippon (now Super Formula) and the Super GT series in the GT500 category. Kobayashi's motorsport journey began after watching a Formula Nippon race, leading him to hone his skills in karting and eventually graduate from the Suzuka Circuit Racing School.

Kobayashi's career gained significant momentum in 2010 when he won the All-Japan Formula Three championship in the National Class. The same year, he debuted in the Super GT series (GT500) at the Pokka GT Summer Special, driving for ARTA (Autobacs Racing Team Aguri). In a surprising turn of events, the team mistakenly nominated him for qualifying, where he remarkably secured pole position on his debut. The ARTA team went on to win the race.

His impressive performance earned him a full-time spot with ARTA in the 2011 Super GT season, partnering with former IndyCar Series driver Hideki Mutoh. Since then, Kobayashi has continued to compete in Super GT, achieving multiple wins and establishing himself as a respected driver in the series. He also participated in the GT300 class and returned to GT500 after a few years. In addition to his Super GT commitments, Kobayashi has also raced in Super Formula, further showcasing his versatility as a driver. He is not related to fellow Japanese driver Kamui Kobayashi.