Dale Coyne Racing has signed IndyCar veteran Takuma Sato for the full 2022 NTT IndyCar Series campaign filling the vacant seat left by the Andretti Autosport-bound Romain Grosjean.
The two-time Indianapolis 500 winner will drive the No.51 Rick Ware Racing entry across the 17-race season which begins in St.Petersburg, Florida on February 27.
The former Formula 1 driver moved to IndyCar in 2010 and has picked up six victories, 14 podiums and 10 pole positions during his 12-year stint in the series.
The 44-year-old recently has spent the past four seasons with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing where he picked up three wins, the last of which was the 2020 Indy 500.
“I am extremely excited that we were able to work out a deal with Dale, Rick and everyone at Dale Coyne Racing,” said Sato.
“With Honda an integral part of Dale Coyne Racing, it seemed like a great fit. The team has proven year after year that they are very competitive on all types of circuits.
“Particularly the speed that team has shown in recent years at the Indy 500 were very impressive. I am really looking forward to working with my new environment and can’t wait to get started.”
Team owners Dale Coyne and Rick Ware are keen to utilise Sato’s wealth of experience and speed to help push the team forward.
“Takuma has shown that he is one of the best drivers to ever race in the NTT IndyCar Series,” added Coyne.
“Winning the famed Indianapolis 500 twice, we look forward to competing with our package of a good car with a great driver in the 500 next year.”
Ware added: “I am excited to have Takuma join the Dale Coyne Racing with RWR Family for 2022. Takuma’s experience within motorsports is extensive, not just in the United States, but around the world.
“With Takuma’s experience, and vast knowledge of the cars, we are really looking forward to stepping up the program and having a successful season, and maybe even add another Indianapolis 500 win to his list of achievements.”
