Australia: Sato looks to build on 2004

By BAR F1
March 16 2005

Takuma Sato is keen to get back on track in Australia this weekend after five months away from Grand Prix action. "It is amazing that we are here again, at the start of another season."

"The winter testing period has gone by so quickly and it is great to be going to Melbourne where the fans are really enthusiastic and the atmosphere is perfect for a season opener."

Sato, who scored his maiden F1 podium last summer in America (photo left), is starting his second campaign with Lucky Strike B.A.R Honda. He believes the on-going continuity will pay even bigger dividends in 2005 and is equally keen to see how the new FIA sporting and technical regulations pan out in Melbourne. "I am very excited to go into my third F1 season and it is also the first time that I am continuing to drive for the same team, which makes it very special.," he says. "The first race will be extremely tough for everyone as they get used to the new regulations, but that only excites us more! We feel that we could still be a big challenge to the other teams this year."