TAKUMA AOKI

Takuma Aoki, born on February 24, 1974, is a Japanese racer with a diverse and inspiring career. He initially made his mark in motorcycle road racing, following in the footsteps of his older brother Nobuatsu and younger brother Haruchika, both also accomplished racers. Takuma competed in the Grand Prix circuit, reaching a career-high of 5th in the 500cc world championship in 1997. His promising trajectory was tragically altered by a spinal injury sustained during a motorcycle accident in 1998, which left him paralyzed below the waist.

Despite this life-altering setback, Takuma's passion for motorsports remained undeterred. He transitioned to four-wheeled racing, showcasing incredible resilience and adaptability. He has since participated in numerous cross-country rallies, including the grueling Dakar Rally and the Asia Cross Country Rally. He even competed in the Jaguar I-Pace eTrophy and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2021, demonstrating his unwavering determination and skill on the track.

Beyond his racing endeavors, Aoki has been actively involved in initiatives to support disabled individuals in motorsports. He contributes to the development of cars for disabled drivers with Honda and hosts the "Hand Drive Racing School," a circuit driving school for people with disabilities. Takuma Aoki's story is a testament to his indomitable spirit, serving as an inspiration to racers and individuals facing adversity around the world.