Sato arrives in Super Formula with something of a reputation – and not in a positive sense. As previously documented here, his chance to drive for Team Goh follows the unfortunate episode that took place in last November’s SUPER GT finale at Fuji Speedway, where a mistake by Sato cost Honda and its star driver Naoki Yamamoto back-to-back GT500 titles.
And yet, fast forward just over four months and Sato not only still has the backing of Honda, but he is also the newest member of the Red Bull Junior Team. What’s more, he is being mentored by ex-Honda F1 boss Masashi Yamamoto, whose stated goal is to get youngsters like Sato chances to race in categories such as Formula 2 with Red Bull backing.
