By Josh Farmer, IndyCar Reporter
Takuma Sato will complete Andretti Autosport’s four-car lineup for the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series season.
The Japanese driver will drive the No. 26 Honda in an effective driver swap with Carlos Munoz, who takes Sato’s spot at AJ Foyt Racing.
Sato feels that the depth Andretti Autosport and the multiple engineering changes the team made in the offseason make it the ideal choice for him as he starts the next chapter of his career.
“I am extremely excited that we were able to work out a deal with Michael and Andretti Autosport,” said Sato. “With Honda an integral part of Andretti Autosport, it seemed like a great fit. The team has proven year after year that they are ultra competitive on all types of circuits. Particularly the speed that team has shown in recent years at the Indy 500 were just incredible. I am also very impressed on how aggressively they have addressed their needs for 2017, and am really looking forward to working with my new environment and can’t wait to get started.”
Sato lone IndyCar win came at Long Beach in 2013 when he brought AJ Foyt Racing their first win since 2002.
Prior to his stint at AJ Foyt Racing, Sato raced at Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing for one season and KV Racing for two seasons prior to racing in Formula one from 2002-08.
Team owner Michael Andretti also feels that Sato’s glimmers of success show the talent within and hopes to translate that into many on-track successes.
“He’s not yet had the chance to be part of a larger team where the drivers collaborate; our four drivers and team of engineers working together has bred success for us in the past and has helped many drivers develop on track,” he said. “Takuma has strong racing experience and we are looking forward to providing a team atmosphere where he can continue to grow, develop and be successful.”
A sponsor for Sato’s entry was not announced.
