Takuma Sato

2026 Indy 500 Entry

Career Stats

Biography

Takuma Sato is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Sato became the first Asian driver to win the Indianapolis 500, and he did it twice - in 2017 and 2020. His famous motto "No attack, no chance" perfectly encapsulates the aggressive, never-give-up racing style that has defined his career across both Formula 1 and IndyCar.

Sato's motorsport journey began in Japan before he moved to Europe in 1999 with Honda's support. He competed in Formula 1 from 2002 to 2008, driving for Jordan, BAR, and Super Aguri across more than 90 Grand Prix starts. While an F1 victory eluded him, Sato earned respect for his fearless approach to racing and his relentless work ethic. His near-podium performance at the 2004 United States Grand Prix, where he battled Michael Schumacher on the final lap, remains one of the most memorable moments of his F1 tenure.

After transitioning to the NTT IndyCar Series in 2010, Sato found a home where his talents could truly shine. His first Indy 500 win in 2017 with Andretti Autosport was an emotional triumph that resonated across the motorsport world, particularly in Japan. He followed that up with a second victory in 2020 with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing in the pandemic-delayed August race, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest Indy 500 drivers of his generation.

Now 49, Sato returns to RLL Racing for the 2026 Indianapolis 500, driving the No. 75 Honda with Amada as his primary sponsor. His pursuit of a third Indy 500 victory would place him alongside some of the greatest names in the race's history. Despite his age, Sato has shown that his speed and competitive fire remain undiminished at the venue where he has created his most memorable moments. Six career IndyCar wins, over 221 starts, and two Indy 500 victories make him one of the most accomplished international drivers in the history of American open-wheel racing.

Interesting Facts

• Two-time Indianapolis 500 winner (2017, 2020) - the only Asian driver to win the race
• Famous motto: "No attack, no chance"
• Competed in Formula 1 from 2002 to 2008 for Jordan, BAR, and Super Aguri
• Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, and began racing with Honda's support
• Over 221 career IndyCar starts, ranking among the most experienced drivers in series history
• Six career IndyCar victories including two at Indianapolis
• Has been a brand ambassador for Japanese manufacturers throughout his career

Indianapolis 500 Results (Selected)

Related

• Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing - Team Profile
• Graham Rahal - RLL Full-Time Driver
• Helio Castroneves - Fellow Multi-Time Indy 500 Winner
• 2026 IndyCar Series Coverage