Former F1 driver Takuma Sato has been appointed Honda’s senior advisor on all aspects of racing for the Japanese manufacturer.
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) has entered into a consulting agreement with Takuma Sato, a two-time Indianapolis 500 winner who competes in the world’s top categories of auto racing, including the FIA Formula 1 (F1) World Championship. Did. The Indianapolis 500 (Indy 500) is known as the most prestigious auto race and “the greatest spectacle in racing.” As his HRC executive advisor, Sato will provide advice and support in all aspects of Honda and his HRC’s auto racing activities.
Takuma Sato graduated from the then Suzuka Circuit Racing School (currently Honda Racing School Suzuka, abbreviated as HRS) in 1997 and demonstrated his outstanding talent, winning the British F3 title. In 2002, Sato entered his F1 and at the 2004 American Grand Prix he finished on the podium in third place.
Sato has been competing in the IndyCar Series since 2010. The Indy 500 is considered one of the three major car races in the world, along with the F1 Monaco Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Sato is the only Japanese-born driver to win the Indy 500 twice. For the 2024 season, Sato will compete in his Sunday, May 26th Indy 500 race from Rahal’s Letterman Lanigan Racing and will look to win his third Indy 500 title.
Takuma Sato has already actively supported Honda’s rider development initiatives as director of HRS. As an executive advisor to HRC, Sato will provide advice and support regarding the development of rider development strategies and programs promoted by Honda both domestically and internationally, as well as race participation plans and race activity management systems.
In addition, HRC will strive to further improve HRC’s brand image by utilizing Mr. Sato’s experience and knowledge as a world-class racing driver in the planning and release of HRC brand products.
“I am very proud to have been appointed as HRC Executive Advisor,” said Mr. Sato. “This reflects my commitment to Honda, which has supported me in my quest to realize my dreams over the years and has been with me to this day. Of course, we will continue to adhere to the spirit of “no attack, no chance,” and continue to be a challenger, taking on new challenges together with Honda and HRC.Through these challenges, we will continue to strive to contribute to the further development of Honda’s motorsports activities. We will try our best to do so.”
Honda’s Koji Watanabe added, “We are very pleased to welcome HRC’s new executive advisor, Takuma Sato, who has continued to grow and win accolades as a racing driver.” Mr. Sato has already achieved great results as a director of HRS. He has made significant contributions to our efforts to develop young racers, and we plan to expand his involvement as an executive advisor to HRC.
“We are very encouraged that Honda will continue to support Honda’s motorsports activities in a more diverse way.” Takuma Sato’s appeal lies not only in his driving skills, but also in his strong conviction to take on challenges. I think it’s time to continue. A challenge to win. We congratulate him on his courageous challenge to compete in the Indy 500 again this year and wish him all the best in achieving this special milestone and winning his third Indy 500. HRC/Honda will do our best to fight for him together with all the fans. ”
[Note: Story corresponds to press release]
