Sato finishes ninth in Formula Nippon Round 6

Takuma Sato, who competed for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing this season, started 14th and finished ninth in Round 6 of the Formula Nippon season at Sportsland Sugo. He was driving Honda-powered Swift for Team Mugen.

Joao Paulo de Oliveira, who competed in the Indy Japan in September 2011, also was among the 18 entries using Honda engines and Bridgestone tires. He placed sixth. The finale of the 26th season is Nov. 4 at the Suzuka Circuit.

Dallara Automobili announced last week that it will design and supply all the cars to the new Japanese Championship – Super Formula for 2014. It will replace Formula Nippon. The new car should have its first shakedown test in mid-2013.