Foyt signs Sato

UPDATE So this mean that the Great All American team owner is running a Japanese driver with a Japanese engine. Foyt was once said to have said, "Gawd damn furriners with there freakin' engine leases." The irony of it all.

"Where's that laptop at? I feel like slamming something….Arie get over here, you'll do!"

01/10/13 Ending several months of speculation about their plans for 2013, AJ Foyt Racing has signed Takuma Sato to drive the ABC Supply No. 14 Honda in the IZOD IndyCar Series.

“There were a lot of question marks when the season ended but I’m happy to put an end to all that now. We chose to go with Takuma Sato because he brings a lot of experience to our team but he has the hunger of a rookie – and he’s certainly proven he has the desire to win," said A.J. Foyt.

“I like the fact that he is competitive on both road courses and ovals and that he is a charger," said Foyt. “I think he has learned quite a bit in the short time he’s been over here and I look forward to working with him this year."

“I am extremely excited to be a part of A.J. Foyt Racing and working with ABC Supply for the 2013 season," said Sato. “I have seen the potential of the team last year on a number of occasions. I think the team has one of the best engineering staffs in the paddock led by Don Halliday. I can’t wait to start testing next month.

“While I do not know A.J. well yet, it is unbelievable what he did in his career. A.J. has achieved so many wins in every type of car, at every type of circuit, and in every type of situation. That experience can only help in trying to win races this year. I think with A.J. and the team helping me this year, we can be very successful."

Although on track testing is not scheduled until February, Sato will start working on his off track responsibilities immediately.

“My first assignment is not a tough one at all," Sato said. “I will be on a seven-day Caribbean cruise with guests of the team’s sponsor ABC Supply followed by several appearances at industry trade shows. I am anxious to meet them and start working with this great company."

“A. J., Larry and I spoke on video conference just before the holidays," Sato said, adding, “I think it was A.J.’s first time. I will have to work with A.J. a bit on the computer."