Takuma Sato Faces Setback Ahead of Indy 500 Return
Takuma Sato is set to return to the Indianapolis 500 with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL) after acquiring a new Dallara DW12 chassis. However, a crash during last week’s Indy Open Test at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has necessitated the construction of a replacement car.
During the high-boost session, Sato’s No. 75 Honda collided with the Turn 1 wall, experiencing over 90Gs of force. While the DW12 tub—the driver safety cell—showed no signs of terminal damage, a thorough inspection revealed structural issues requiring a new chassis. Sato had previously achieved the fastest no-tow lap of 232.565 mph right before the incident.
RLL president Jay Frye confirmed that a new tub has been procured from Dallara USA in Speedway, Indiana, and assembly of the replacement vehicle is currently underway. The new No. 75 is anticipated to make its track debut during practice sessions beginning on Tuesday, May 13, ahead of the prestigious race.
