Takuma Sato becomes Honda’s executive motorsports advisor
The former F1 driver will bring his racing experience to all the Honda brand's motorsport-related programs.
While he is still an active driver in IndyCar and will compete again in the Indianapolis 500 this year, Japanese driver Takuma Sato has been recruited by HRC, Honda Racing Corporation, to help the sports branch of the Tokyo-based manufacturer to grow.
Already the director of the Honda Racing School (HRS), the program for young drivers of the Japanese manufacturer, Sato is adding another string to his manager duties, and continues to climb the ranks within the company that has helped him reach the pinnacle of the global motorsport industry since a young age.
(I) I am truly proud to have been appointed as an executive advisor of HRC. It is a symbol of my connection with Honda, which has made my dream come true for many years. In addition to passing on my experience to the next generation, I will continue to take on new challenges with Honda and HRC. Through these challenges, I will strive to contribute to the development of Honda’s activities in the field of motorsports,” Sato said after the announcement of his appointment.
Yasuharu Watanabe, President of HRC, paid tribute to Sato before specifying his new role.
I am very pleased to welcome Takuma Sato, who continues to evolve as a driver and has won many races, as an executive advisor at HRC. Takuma Sato has been a director at HRS and has played a key role in the development of our young drivers. I am excited about him becoming an executive advisor at HRC and supporting Honda’s motorsport activities from various angles. I would also like to thank Mr. Takuma Sato for his attractiveness. I believe that this lies not only in his driving skills, but also in his ability to take on challenges in order to win.
The president of HRC did not specify what Sato’s potential role would be in the future supply of Honda engines to Aston Martin F1, starting from the 2026 season.
In 90 Formula 1 Grand Prix races spread over 7 seasons between 2002 and 2008, Takuma Sato raced for 3 teams, Jordan, BAR, and Super Aguri, all powered by Honda engines. He achieved a podium finish at the 2004 United States Grand Prix, finishing 3rd behind the two Ferraris driven by Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello. His highest championship ranking was 8th, also in 2004. Since retiring from F1, Sato has successfully pursued his career in the United States, winning the Indianapolis 500 twice.
