Car Racing without Money
Chapter 114 - 89: Operation Tokyo
CHAPTER 114: CHAPTER 89: OPERATION TOKYO
Thus, Principal Nakajima didn’t have the basis to sign a contract with Chen Xiangbei; their goals were not aligned.
"Xiangbei, Nakajima Planning cannot sign with you."
Nakajima Goro gave the final answer, although he appreciated Chen Xiangbei, it was not possible to start an overseas plan for him alone.
Upon hearing this answer, even though Chen Xiangbei was mentally prepared, he couldn’t help but reveal a bit of disappointment.
Indeed, in this era, wanting to establish a team of one’s own in China seems quite difficult, almost like an unrealistic dream.
Just when Chen Xiangbei thought it was hopeless, Nakajima Goro shifted his tone and said, "I can recommend someone to you. If you can convince him, there might be hope."
"Principal Nakajima, please enlighten me."
"Suzuki Aguri!"
Upon hearing this name, Chen Xiangbei immediately understood.
Nakajima Goro became Japan’s national hero because he was the first Japanese driver to score points in F1, breaking the racial stereotype that Asians weren’t suited for F1 racing.
Suzuki Aguri, on the other hand, was the first Japanese driver to stand on the F1 podium and was also hailed as one of the legends in Japanese racing!
In comparison to Nakajima Goro’s focus on domestic events, Suzuki Aguri leaned more toward overseas formula events. The ARTA team he formed has fostered numerous Japanese drivers to advance in higher-tier competitions.
For instance, the renowned F1 driver whose Super Driver’s License was revoked, Inoue Yuuki, was sponsored by ARTA to participate in the F3 Championship in Germany, eventually becoming a member of the Super Aguri Team.
Currently, apart from the factory teams in Japan, only Suzuki Aguri has the resources and technology to support drivers in developing in overseas formula fields.
"Mr. Suzuki is currently in Tokyo; I’ll act as an introducer to connect you two."
"However, Mr. Suzuki has always had a Japanese dream, convincing him will be difficult."
Since he provided a clue, Nakajima Goro didn’t mind helping thoroughly; he will introduce Chen Xiangbei to Suzuki Aguri.
As for whether it could succeed, it all depends on Chen Xiangbei’s own ability.
"I am willing to try."
Without any hesitation, Chen Xiangbei agreed immediately.
Originally, it’s a task as difficult as climbing the sky, having hope is better than having none.
Even if he ultimately fails, at least he tried hard for this goal.
"I’ll contact you then."
"Okay, thank you, Principal Nakajima."
Chen Xiangbei stood up, bowed slightly to express gratitude, then exited the principal’s office.
Downstairs, Chen Xiangbei took out his phone to check the time, it was already close to seven in the evening, naturally, there was no need to proceed with other training programs, it’s better to return to Suzuka Apartments early and rest.
Just as Chen Xiangbei walked to the training hall, he happened to see Hoshino Yoshi coming out of the driver’s lounge, dragging a suitcase behind him.
Over the past month and a half, Chen Xiangbei barely saw Hoshino Yoshi a few times, the guy was not just arriving late and leaving early, he seemed not to intend to proceed with professional training at all.
Frankly speaking, Chen Xiangbei felt somewhat regretful, Hoshino Yoshi’s talent for racing was really good.
If trained properly, he might not necessarily make it to F1, but running in Japan’s Super Formula or Super GT shouldn’t be a big problem.
Talent needs to be built on effort, with Hoshino Yoshi squandering away like this, he may not achieve any results in the future.
With this mindset, Chen Xiangbei shouted, "Hoshino Yoshi!"
Seeing Chen Xiangbei coming over, Hoshino Yoshi showed a smile and replied, "Xiangbei, I just heard that you won the race, sorry I couldn’t cheer for you on-site and celebrate."
"It’s alright, what are you up to?"
Chen Xiangbei pointed at the suitcase.
"I plan to withdraw from Honda Racing Academy."
What?
Hearing this response, Chen Xiangbei showed a surprised expression.
This lad is only seventeen years old and holds the Japanese F4 championship title; even if he didn’t compete for his Renault Series qualification, normally he can upgrade to F3 series.
After all, Japan’s event system is very complete, there’s no fear of having no races to run.
"Why do you want to withdraw?"
Facing Chen Xiangbei’s inquiry, Hoshino Yoshi still smiled, choosing to avoid discussing it just like before.
"You want to withdraw from Honda Racing Academy, I will be going to Europe to participate in Renault events, maybe this will be the last time we meet."
"If there’s anything, just say it."
Chen Xiangbei urged, without too much surprise, the two would become passersby in each other’s lives, what’s the need to hide anything?
"My mother’s condition has worsened and needs to go to Tokyo for treatment, there’s no way to continue professional training at the academy."
Hoshino Yoshi replied with a dull expression, how could he not want to stay here to become a professional driver, but life leaves no choice.
"So you were skipping training to take care of your mom?"
Chen Xiangbei asked back.
"Yes."
Upon getting Hoshino Yoshi’s confirmation, Chen Xiangbei came to an understanding.
He always felt Hoshino Yoshi was quite down-to-earth, during the limited professional training, he was very diligent, not at all like someone who would slack off and squander their talent.
Now that the reason is known.
Many things are better left unasked; once known, one doesn’t know what more to say.
After a moment of silence, Chen Xiangbei spoke, "Is there anything I can help with?"
To be honest, as a foreigner, Chen Xiangbei basically couldn’t help much.
Hoshino Yoshi also knew it was Chen Xiangbei’s sincere intention, he responded with a smile, "No need, my master is a veteran in Japan’s racing, he has already arranged things for me."
After saying these words, Hoshino Yoshi glanced at his watch and said, "I’ve already booked the ticket, couldn’t chat longer with you."