The next step in his career could not have worked out any better for Kimiya Satō. After finishing the ATS Formula 3 Cup, the general qualification for motorsports, third in the overall standings in 2012, the 23-year old Japanese switched to the Auto GP World Series. After three victories for Euronova Racing, he is currently in the lead of his competitors in the international grid, since yesterday in tied with the Italian Sergio Campana. It was the fifth of eight races in Mugello. Taking stock with Kimiya Satō.
Switching to the Auto GP World Series, which is based in Italy, Kimiya Satō is taking another important step by competing in races at international racetracks like Marrakesh. Despite this lack of expertise, the 23-year old was well prepared for the new season. After all, he is currently first in the overall standings. Satō knows “No racing series is easy”. “I am in the lead of the championship but there are a lot of good drivers in the Auto GP World Series. This is not only about driving fast anymore. The whole package is just as crucial as the possibilities of the driver.”
After finishing the 2012 season, the Japanese from Hyogo took a closer look at several racing series in Europe, including the Auto GP World Series during the test days in Barcelona. “I soon realized that the car is great and that I am able to handle it well,” says Satō. “Meaning that the behaviour of an Auto GP car is quite similar to a Formula 3 vehicle. Therefore, I decided that the Auto GP World Series was the best choice for me.”
General qualification for motorsports completed
Kimiya Satō follows the current ATS Formula 3 season, watching the young talents on YouTube. A video about his personal highlight with his former team Lotus is also available on www.youtube.com/f3cup. It is about the racing weekend at Sachsenring in June 2012. “It was nearly perfect, winning first place, second place and first place again“, he recalls. Now he has already scored three victories in the Auto GP World Series. Compared to the ATS Formula 3 Cup there are a lot of differences, including the 550 hp engine that has a stronger aerodynamic power. “It is a big challenge for the body,” says the race driver. “We also have pit stops during the races. So there a quite a few new elements.”
Victory required
“I want to win the Championship” is the clear goal for the current season. Nürburgring, Donington and Brünn are still ahead. The final race in early October will show if he succeeds. Afterwards he intends to take the next step up. Even though he does not know yet where his career will take him, one thing is certain. Kimiya Satō will continue competing in single-seater series.