Sato: No interest in F1 return
The former Honda and Super Aguri man tops the IndyCar standings heading into the biggest event of the year at Indianapolis this month having taken his maiden win in the series at Long Beach earlier this season.
The 36-year-old left F1 following the demise of the Super Aguri team back in 2008 – turning his focus to the USA after missing out on a role with Toro Rosso for the following season.
Having spent two seasons racing with KV Racing Technology, Sato switched to Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing last year and is now competing with AJ Foyt Enterprises in his fourth year of IndyCar competition.
Quizzed as to whether he felt there was 'unfinished business' in F1 following the nature of his departure, Sato insisted that his only focus now was on IndyCar as he seeks to add to his single victory and challenge for the championship.
“It was a really sad moment for everyone, for the sport and for the team and for the members, but it was an unfinished job in F1 for me," he was quoted by NBC in reference to the demise of Super Aguri. “So I tried to come back in F1 for nearly two seasons.
“I had a huge opportunity with the Toro Rosso team, but unfortunately at the end of the day for some reason that didn't happen; that was a really shocking moment. Then after that, as well, I had a little opportunity but it just didn't happen.
“Formula One isn't the only racing. I had a great opportunity to come here with Jimmy [Vasser] and since then, my focus is 100 percent in Indy.
“My first focus is to win races here, win the '500′ and win the championship. It's all sort of growing up, and now a lot of momentum and a lot of – how can I say – it's the target that I want to do."