03/10/2005
NEWS STORY
Well connected sources have informed Pitpass that BAR driver Takuma Sato, who is to lose his F1 seat to Rubens Barrichello for 2006, and currently has no other drive lined up, will drive Japan's entry in the A1 GP series.
It's unclear when the Japanese driver will switch disciplines, but the most obvious time would be after the Chinese Grand Prix, which means he could make his A1 debut at Estoril.
Although the 28-year-old has been connected with Jordan for 2006, there is speculation that this could cause 'problems' with the Silverstone-based team's engine supplier, Toyota.
The presence in A1 GP of a driver 'fresh' from F1 would give the series another boost, and would certainly create even greater interest in the new series in Japan. At Brands Hatch Ryo Fukuda drove the Japan A1 car, while Hideki Noda is also scheduled to drive in future races.
The fact that A1 takes place during what is the 'off season' for many other series, means that well known drivers form other disciplines could make guest appearances.
There is already speculation that IRL Champion Tony Kanaan will drive the Brazil car at some point, while Danica Patrick has been linked with a guest appearance in the USA car.
The fact that Willi Weber owns the franchise for Team Germany has led to speculation that one of the Schumacher brothers could also make an appearance, if only in a practice session.