IndyCar driver Takuma Sato has joined Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) as an executive advisor.
Honda has appointed two-time Indy 500 winner and former Formula 1 driver Takuma Sato as an executive advisor of Honda Racing Corporation which is the global motorsport division of the Japanese automaker and F1 power units supplier.
Sato, who has always been associated with Honda, will be driving for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing this year in an attempt to win the Indy 500 for the third time.
In his capacity as HRC’s executive advisor, Sato will offer Honda and HRC “advice and support in all aspects of the automobile racing activities,” which includes Formula 1.
Sato has been actively engaged in young driver programmes as a representative of the Honda Racing School, whose alumnus includes RB driver Yuki Tsunoda.
According to the company, Sato will offer guidance and assistance in implementing Honda’s driver development plans and initiatives both inside and outside of Japan, as well as the operational framework for racing-related activities.
Sato will also be involved in marketing as HRC aims to further improve the HRC brand image by tapping into his expertise and experience as a seasoned racing driver.
Honda currently partners with Red Bull Powertrains in Formula 1. However, when the sport debuts its next-generation power unit in 2026, the manufacturer will make a comeback as a full works power unit supplier to Aston Martin.
Although Honda’s statement doesn’t expressly mention its future works involvement with Aston Martin ironically Sato made his Grand Prix debut in 2002 with Team Silverstone under its Jordan identity. His career in Formula 1 lasted for seven seasons including 90 race starts.
“I am very proud to be appointed as HRC executive advisor,” Sato said. “This represents my bond with Honda, which has been supporting my challenges to realise dreams for so many years and came this far hand-in-hand.
“In addition to passing on the skills and experience I have amassed to future generations, I will still be a challenger and continue to take on new challenges together with Honda/HRC without losing the spirit of ‘No attack, no chance.’
“Through such challenges, I will strive to contribute to the further advancement of Honda motorsports activities.”
HRC president Koji Watanabe added: “As the principal of HRS, Mr Sato has already been making a great contribution to our efforts to develop young race drivers, but now he will broaden his involvement as the executive advisor of HRC.
“We feel very encouraged that he will provide more multifaceted support for Honda motorsports activities.
“We believe that people are attracted to Takuma Sato not only because of his driving skills, but also because he has been demonstrating strong belief and continues to take on challenges to win.
“We laud his bold challenge of competing in the Indy 500 again this year, and sincerely hope that he will achieve the special milestone of winning the Indy 500 for the third time. Together with fans, HRC/Honda will be rooting for him with all our heart.”
