Gresini Team Honoring Kato

Cycle News Staff | April 20, 2013

AUSTIN, TEXAS, APR. 20 – Ten years ago Daijiro Kato lost his life in a crash at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka and his former team will honor the fallen champion at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas today by putting the number 74 on their Hondas.

“The 20th of April is a very sad day for us because it marks exactly 10 years since we lost Daijiro Kato in a tragic accident in Japan,” said team owner Fausto Gresini. “Today we want to remember him as we knew him, with that smile that met each of his Grand Prix wins and lit up his face on so many occasions away from the track. His simplicity, combined with his inspired commitment, were two extraordinary facets of his character. Today we will have the number 74 on all of our bikes – a fitting tribute to a great champion who will always remain in our hearts and who we want to be remembered forever.”