The two-time World Endurance champion and overall winner in the 2021 Le Mans 24 Hours will start 28th in his Cup debut on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course, driving the #67 23XI Racing Toyota.
He joins a star-studded field that includes Shane van Gisbergen, Brodie Kostecki, Jenson Button, and Mike Rockenfeller for Sunday's race.
"It’s been a long preparation for myself," said Kobayashi during a Saturday press conference at IMS.
"I’ve been traveling from Japan three times from Europe to Charlotte and I was preparing being here at the Indy Road Course.
"I’m really happy to finally get here. I think the preparation was pretty good.
"I think 23XI helped me to get here and be pretty confident. Obviously, I think Toyota and TRD have helped me a lot in the simulator sessions to be prepared for this road course.
"Honestly, I think with my preparation and everything that I’m 100% ready for this weekend.”
Although Kobayashi has never made a start in any level of stock car racing before, the 36-year-old has plenty of experience elsewhere, starting 75 Formula 1 races between 2009 and 2014, scoring one podium and finishing as high as 12th in the championship standings.
Leading up to this event, Kobayashi has done several hours of simulator work and tested the car on-track at Virginia International Raceway.
Source: Autosport