23XI driver Kamui Kobayashi trying to raise NASCAR's profile in Japan with Verizon 200 Cup debut

Japanese race car driver Kamui Kobayashi jumped behind the NASCAR wheel on Sunday hoping to accomplish two things. First, he wanted to run as well as he possibly could at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, one of the world’s most iconic tracks. Second, his goal was to raise the sport’s profile while driving in the Verizon 200.

Kobayashi has seen better days behind a wheel, finishing 33rd in Sunday’s road course race at IMS. But a few days before the event, the 36-year-old said he wanted to expand NASCAR’s reach in Japan.

He believes there’s potential to grow interest in the country.

“I’m here to experience NASCAR, but at the same time I want to expand NASCAR (interest) in Japan,” he told NBC Sports. “I think there’s a big potential.”

Over the years, NASCAR has explored new and unique opportunities to grow the sport. It’s driven on new tracks, incorporated more road courses and is looking into potential international races.

Kobayashi’s presence at the Verizon 200 could help grow the sport in Japan, even if he didn’t finish well. It provides something a little bit different than typical racing in the country.

“NASCAR is something different because they have a big bumper and bump into each other,” he said.

Kobayashi raced for the 23XI team on Sunday, co-owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan. Heading into Sunday’s event, Hamlin expressed confidence that the Japanese driver could perform well at the road course.

“I think that he could go and run well,” Hamlin said. “I think he’s going to have speed. … It’s going to be fun to watch him because I think he’s such a professional. What we’ve learned at 23XI is how in tune he is with his craft and how good he is at what he does. He’s on another level for sure. I’m excited to see him and (Shane van Gisbergen) square off.”

Kobayashi currently competes on the FIA World Endurance Championship and Super Formula Championship. Previously, he’s competed in Formula One, Formula E, GP2 Series and GP2 Asia Series.

Sunday’s Verizon 200 was won by Michael McDowell, the second NASCAR Cup Series victory of his career. Chase Elliott finished second and Daniel Suarez came in third. Kobayashi’s teammate for the day — Tyler Reddick — crossed the finish line fourth. Alex Bowman rounded out the top-five.

Just two races remain in the NASCAR Cup Series regular season. The playoffs begin in September.