Sato confirmed at BAR for 2005

BAR-Honda has taken up its option on Takuma Sato for next year, the team confirmed in Tokyo ahead of this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix

Oct 5, 2004, 10:12 AM

The Japanese driver is currently in the second year of a three-year deal with the team. The first, in 2003 was a testing role, this year was a race seat while a drive in 2005 was dependent on his performance this season.

The team confirmed that Sato has fulfilled all the performance requirements and will keep his seat for another year.

The team's decision comes as no real surprise given the Japanese driver's improved results this year. While still showing flashes of over-exuberance, Sato has become a more rounded driver, as his podium in the United States Grand Prix showed.

Sato will provide continuity and stability to the team who has yet to hear if Jenson Button will be donning its overalls next year. The Contracts Recognition Board is set to make its decision on the Briton's contract later this month.

More to follow...