Andretti Signs Sato

Andretti Autosport announced today the signing of Takuma Sato to the team's 4th full-time entry in 2017.

The confirmation of Sato crosses the t's and dots the i's of essentially a driver swap between AJ Foyt Racing and Andretti. Following last season Carlos Munoz became a free agent and with a substantial portion of his funding going away, the Colombian was in need of a paid seat. That seat became available when Foyt switched engine manufacturers from Honda to Chevrolet. Sato, a Honda backed driver who Foyt may have let go for performance issues anyway, wasn't returning to a Chevrolet-powered car. With Munoz's funding-required Honda ride available, it was an obvious landing spot for the veteran Japanese driver.

“I think joining the team will be a new and positive opportunity for Takuma,” said Michael Andretti. “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. 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.”

Sato, who will pilot the No. 26, has racked up 5 podiums, 5 poles and 1 win in his 118 starts with 3 teams.

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