Conquest Racing signs Roger Yasukawa
Yasukawa who started competing in the IZOD IndyCar Series in 2003 will be competing in his sixth Indy Japan race at the 1.5-mile oval and his first with Conquest Racing.
"I am really excited to be back in the car for the Indy Japan 300 race in a couple of weeks," expressed Yasukawa. “I always enjoy being able to race in front of my family, friends, and fans in Japan, and would like to thank Conquest Racing, CWE, and VIDA for this opportunity.
“I have not driven an Indy car for a year now, but I am very confident that the team will give me a strong car. I have worked with several crewmembers of the #36 car in the past, so it shouldn't take too long to gel with the team.
“We’re expecting a record crowd for the Japan race this year, and I'm sure it is going to be very exciting!"
The US-born Japanese driver has been competing partially in the series these last few years with this year marking the eighth consecutive season that he competes in at least one race in the IZOD IndyCar Series.
“We’re very happy to have Roger join the team and to be able to give him the opportunity to once again compete in front of his fans and family in Japan," said Eric Bachelart, Conquest Racing team owner. “Roger will bring great experience to the team that will be good for everyone and we look forward to working with him."
Yasukawa started competing in karts in 1990, first racing in the Unites States then Italy. The driver who is fluent in English, Japanese and Italian came back to race on American soil in the Skip Barber Formula Dodge Western Series in 1998 taking the championship by storm, winning 10 of 11 races and placing second in the only race he did not win.
After a few more years in the Barber Dodge Series and a season in the Atlantic Series he graduated to IndyCar racing in 2003 with Super Aguri Fernandez Racing.
The Indy Japan 300 takes place September 18, 2010 and will be broadcast live on Versus September 18, 2010 starting at 10:30 p.m. ET.