Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing has announced that Takuma Sato will race the 2025 Indy 500.
Sato’s career has been one of determination and fighting back. After making his mark in Formula 1 from 2002 to 2008, racing for Jordan, BAR, and Super Aguri, Sato transitioned to the IndyCar Series. His aggressive driving style and never-give-up attitude made him a fan favourite. In 2017, he became the first Japanese driver to win the Indy 500. He repeated this feat in 2020, further proving his mastery of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Now, at 47 years old, Sato returns to RLL, the team with which he secured his first Indy 500 victory. His experience and expertise at the Speedway are invaluable, and he is eager to seize another shot at glory.
Sato on his return
Expressing his excitement about rejoining the team for the prestigious race, Sato said:
“I’m very excited to return to the 109th Indy 500 with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing. Once again, a heartfelt thank you to Bobby, Mike, David, and the entire organization for this incredible opportunity.
I’m also deeply grateful for the continued support from AMADA as the primary sponsor, alongside Panasonic Automotive Systems, Niterra, Deloitte Tohmatsu, NAC, Honda, HRC, and all our loyal sponsors.
The new No. 75 car carries over RLL’s historic design with a refreshed and dynamic new livery – it looks absolutely stunning. Last year was an incredible experience, reconnecting with the team, and this year, even more familiar faces have joined the effort, which makes this moment even more special and gives me great confidence. I can’t wait to get to work.”
Team and Sponsor Excitement
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing is a prestigious American motorsport team competing in both the NTT IndyCar Series and the IMSA SportsCar Championship. Initially founded in 1991 as Rahal Hogan Racing, the team evolved into Rahal Letterman Racing when legendary broadcaster David Letterman joined as a co-owner in 1996. In 2010, businessman Mike Lanigan was added to the ownership, forming Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL) as it stands today.
The team is equally thrilled to welcome Sato back for another run at the ‘Greatest Spectacle in Racing.’
Voices within the team
Bobby Rahal, Co-Owner of RLL, highlighted Sato’s value to the team:
“We are excited to have Takuma part of our Indy 500 program again. His experience, talent and bravado at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, in particular, is evident by his two wins. The work ethic he brings, in addition to his attention to detail, adds immeasurable value to our program.
We are thrilled to have AMADA return as the primary sponsor for the entry. They continue to be an integral part of our racing programs, not only for the Indy 500. We utilize their equipment on a daily basis and couldn’t be happier with our partnership.”
Mike Lanigan, fellow Co-Owner of the team, echoed this sentiment, looking forward to what Sato can achieve:
“Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing is very proud to have Takuma Sato back at the Indy 500. Takuma has always been quick at the speedway and his two wins confirm his abilities at the Greatest Spectacle in Racing.
I personally look forward with great optimism, to be the team that gives Takuma the opportunity to win the trifecta and am thankful to have AMADA as primary sponsor again.”
AMADA, a long-time partner of both Sato and RLL, is equally invested, with CEO Mike Guerin stating:
“We are thrilled to once again partner with the prestigious Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing team and Takuma Sato for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500! This partnership reflects our shared dedication for pushing technological boundaries and achieving peak performance. We look forward to showcasing the synergy between our two organizations on racing’s biggest stage.”
Chasing History
Sato’s return to RLL brings a sense of excitement and anticipation. With his wealth of experience, past success at the Speedway, and an elite team behind him, he has every chance of adding a third Indy 500 win to his name. If he succeeds, he will join the elite group of drivers who have conquered the Brickyard three times—a feat achieved by only a handful of legends.
With the 2025 Indy 500 fast approaching (May 25th, 2025), all eyes will be on Takuma Sato as he once again takes on the challenge of 500 miles at one of motorsport’s most legendary circuits.
Feature Image Credit: Penske Entertainment
