Popular Japanese Formula One racer Takuma Sato is headed to the Indianapolis 500.

Sato will contest the entire  2010 IZOD Indycar Series with the Indianapolis-based team KV Racing Technology, headed by champion driver Jimmy Vasser and Australian business man Kevin Kalkhoven.

Sato’s move to Indycar will be a huge boost for the struggling series in Japan where Sato remains the country’s best known and most popular driver.

“This is a very exciting time for me and all my supporters. I have really missed racing last year and can’t wait to get started in this new challenge with such a great team. To me, KV Racing is a team with massive potential and great team spirit.” he said.

Sato brings a wealth of experience to the team. His 16 wins in British Formula 3 over the 2000 and 2001 seasons is still a record, he is a winner at the prestigous Macau Grand Prix as well as starting in 90 F1 races with a best finish of third at the US Grand Prix.

KV Racing team co-owner Jimmy Vasser said that the team were very excited to have Sato on board.  ”I can’t wait to see what I know will be a extremely fast pace by Taku on the road courses and look forward to working with him and getting him up to speed on the ovals.” said Vasser.

“I have no doubt that Taku will be right on the pace immediately.  Taku’s knowledge and experience will be a great asset and his great sense of humour and easy manner will add positive energy to our team” he said.

No doubt the Japanese sponsorship money that Sato will also bring will also be most welcome in what is looking like a tough year for Indycar.