By Phil Huff
June 20 2005

Lucky Strike BAR Honda racer Takuma Sato apologised to his fans yesterday, following the team's withdrawal from the United States Grand Prix on advice from tyre supplier Michelin. "I would like to send my deep and sincere apologies to all the fans who were looking forward to watching the USA GP," said Takuma.

"I am sadly disappointed for all the fans, the team and of course for myself that circumstances beyond our control prevented us from racing today.

Everyone in the team has worked so hard to be ready for this race and we were confident of a good result."

Michelin have been criticised by the FIA for failing to produce a tyre fit for the race, despite rival Bridgestone's tyres being capable of lasting in excess of 100 laps at Indianapolis.

"I cannot comment on the details of the decision not to race," commented Takuma, "except to say that I am confident that the BAR-Honda team management made the correct decision on the day to reduce the chances of a serious incident happening and that as a result, no one was injured in the race.

"Of course we are looking forward to the French GP in 2 weeks time.

"Finally," added Takuma, "I want to thank all the fans as usual for your fantastic support."