Sato surprised by Suzuka call-up
BAR-Honda's reserve driver Takuma Sato confessed his surprise at being promoted to the race seat for this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix following Jacques Villeneuve's decision not to take part in the event
The Japanese driver, who has not raced since last year's event at Suzuka when he finished fifth for Jordan, was on the train traveling to the circuit when he found out the news. Villeneuve decided not to race after he was informed his services were not required for 2004.
"I only heard yesterday morning," Sato said. "It's an absolutely amazing feeling. I really didn't expect to be driving this weekend.
"As a test and reserve driver you have to ready and professional just in case you are needed, but even so, to get a chance to race in front of your home crowd like this is like a dream come true.
"Japan's F1 fanbase is beginning to grow again. Hopefully this will help to build on that momentum. I hope I can give them something to cheer about and help Suzuka with the gate receipts!"
Share Or Save This Story
Why Hamilton now has everything in the right place at Ferrari
Green wins again as GB4 title race heats up at Oulton Park
Alpine continues quest to fix Gasly's mystifying car issues
Oulton Park round sets up thrilling British GT 2026 title fight
Subscribe and access Autosport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments