Ohta Chases IndyCar Opportunity

Kakunoshin “Kaku” Ohta has made no secret of his long-term ambition to race in the IndyCar Series, and as the 2026 driver market gathers momentum, the Japanese ace believes his performances in Super Formula have demonstrated that he is ready to make the leap.

The 27-year-old Honda factory driver arrives at this weekend’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship round at Watkins Glen as one of Japan’s most in-form racing drivers. Leading the Super Formula standings while simultaneously contesting the Super GT Championship, Ohta is also continuing to strengthen his credentials in North America through selected appearances with Acura Meyer Shank Racing.

Although his immediate focus remains on helping Acura challenge for victory in the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen, Ohta admits that every opportunity in the United States is another chance to prove he belongs on the IndyCar grid.

“I still have a big dream for IndyCar,” Ohta told Motorsport.com. “Honda also knows that, so we’re still working on it.”

Building a trans-Pacific career

Ohta’s relationship with Honda has steadily expanded beyond Japan over the past two seasons.

After making his North American debut with Acura Meyer Shank Racing during IMSA’s endurance events last year, the Japanese driver earned an IndyCar test with Meyer Shank Racing at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course last October. During that evaluation, he completed 104 laps, gaining valuable experience of IndyCar machinery and its hybrid systems.

This season, he returns to IMSA alongside experienced prototype drivers Renger van der Zande and Nick Yelloly in the No. 93 Acura ARX-06. His only previous IMSA outing in 2026 came at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, where the trio secured a competitive fifth-place finish.

Ohta’s 2026 programme

IMSA uncertainty creates fresh questions

Ohta’s long-term future has become more complicated following Acura’s decision to pause its Grand Touring Prototype (GTP) programme at the conclusion of the current IMSA season.

The announcement means one of North America’s leading manufacturer-backed prototype programmes will disappear, reducing opportunities for drivers associated with Honda’s American sports car effort.

While disappointed by the news, Ohta insists it has not altered his commitment to Honda or his determination to reach IndyCar.

“It’s a big shame for me, but it is what it is,” he said.

“I respect their decision. I’m a Honda factory driver and I’m representing Honda in Super Formula and Super GT.

“I’m not sure whether Acura leaving IMSA will massively affect my future or not. But I will definitely miss Daytona and the big IMSA races because they’re races I really wanted to win.”

Super Formula success strengthens his case

With Meyer Shank Racing now expected to have a vacancy following Felix Rosenqvist’s departure at the end of the season, Ohta believes his performances in Japan should make him a genuine contender for an IndyCar opportunity.

He points to the recent success of former Super Formula drivers as compelling evidence.

Reigning four-time IndyCar champion Alex Palou developed his skills in Japan before moving to America, while Indianapolis 500 winner Felix Rosenqvist also arrived in IndyCar after a successful Super Formula career.

Both finished third in the Japanese championship before crossing the Pacific.

Ohta believes winning the title would provide even stronger validation.

“I believe my speed is already at IndyCar level,” he said.

“I’m leading the Super Formula championship. Alex Palou and Felix Rosenqvist both came from Super Formula, and they both finished third in the championship before moving to IndyCar.

“So if I become Super Formula champion, I think that proves my performance for IndyCar.

“I really want to race in IndyCar in the near future.”

Learning remains the priority

Despite his confidence, Ohta acknowledges that adapting to North America’s diverse range of circuits remains one of the biggest challenges.

Unlike Japan’s relatively familiar venues, IndyCar combines permanent road courses, temporary street circuits and high-speed ovals, many of which Ohta has never driven.

“Many of the IndyCar circuits I’ve never raced on,” he admitted.

“I want to learn more about the tracks and understand the car better.

“My speed is under control because I’m leading Super Formula, so I feel confident about that side. But I also need to stay calm because I’m still learning the American tracks and the IndyCar itself.

“I don’t want to be too aggressive. I have to balance learning with chasing the dream.”

Waiting for the right opportunity

Although no timetable has been established for a move to IndyCar, Ohta says discussions continue behind the scenes with Honda, and he remains prepared to seize an opportunity whenever it arises.

For now, success in Super Formula and continued progress in IMSA remain the best ways to strengthen his credentials.

“Every chance I have to chase the dream, I have to chase,” he said.

“The only thing I can say right now is that I’m still preparing.

“As soon as I feel ready, and Honda and the teams feel I’m ready, I’ll definitely take that opportunity.”

With Honda continuing to support his development on both sides of the Pacific, Ohta’s performances over the remainder of the season could prove decisive. A Super Formula title would not only represent the biggest achievement of his career to date but could also become the strongest argument yet for a long-awaited move to the IndyCar Series.