Timo Glock to miss Brazilian Grand Prix11.10.2009

Panasonic Toyota Racing regrets to announce that Timo Glock will not participate in the Brazilian Grand Prix due to injuries he suffered in qualifying at Suzuka.

Timo was initially diagnosed with only a minor cut to his leg following his accident in qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix, but subsequent medical checks in Germany have revealed a cracked vertebra. Doctors have therefore ruled him out of this weekend's race.

As announced earlier today at the Motor Sports Japan festival, third driver Kamui Kobayashi will replace Timo at Interlagos. Kamui took part in Friday practice at Suzuka while Timo recovered from illness and acquitted himself well despite difficult conditions.

President John Howett said: "Obviously everyone in the team is very disappointed and feels for Timo; we wish him a very speedy recovery. Based on the initial diagnosis, we fully expected Timo to return in Brazil but unfortunately a different injury has been revealed which prevents that.

"He will remain in Germany to recover and we hope he can recuperate in time for Abu Dhabi, although at this stage the situation is not clear.

"Kamui was the natural choice to step in and he proved in Suzuka that he is capable of holding his own. It is a difficult task for him but he knows the team will give him its complete support and we know he is motivated to make the most of this unexpected opportunity."

A decision on Timo's participation in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be made in due course.

Kamui Kobayashi's Career Summary

1996	SL Takarazuka Tournament, Cadet: 3rd
1997	SL All Japan Cadet: 1st
1998	JAF Cup West Cadet: 1st
1999	SL All Japan Tournament (S stock, D class): 1st
2000	All Japan Junior Kart Championship Suzuka Kart Championship: 1st
2001	All Japan Kart Championship, ICA: 1st Asia Pacific Kart Championship, ICA Esso Formula Toyota Racing School scholarship
2002	Kart Euro Championship Esso Formula Toyota Series (1 race)
2003	Esso Formula Toyota Series: 2nd
2004	Formula Renault Italia: 4th (2 wins)
2005	Formula Renault Italia: 1st (6 wins) Formula Renault Eurocup: 1st (5 wins)
2006	Formula 3 Euro Series: 8th (Rookie of the Year)
2007	Formula 3 Euro Series: 4th (1 win)
2008	GP2 Series Asia: 6th (2 wins) GP2 Series: 16th (1 win) F1: Panasonic Toyota Racing, third driver
2009	GP2 Asia Series: 1st (2 wins) GP2 Series: 16th (1 podium) F1: Panasonic Toyota Racing, third driver