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Taki InoueJapanese racing driver
Date of Birth: 05.09.1963
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Content:
Takagi's Early Career
Takagi began his open-wheel racing career in the British Formula Ford series in 1988. From 1989 to 1993, he competed in Japanese Formula 3 without significant success. In 1994, he also participated in the International Formula 3000 championship.
Formula One Debut
In 1994, Takagi made his Formula One debut at the Japanese Grand Prix, replacing Domenico Schiattarella for the Simtek team. He participated in 18 Formula One Grands Prix, most notably for Footwork in 1995.
Notable Incidents
Takagi's time in Formula One was marked by two peculiar incidents. During free practice in Monaco, his stalled car was struck by Jean Ragnotti's vehicle while being towed, sending him into a barrier. Despite the crash, Takagi was able to compete in the race. In Hungary, Takagi attempted to assist marshals in extinguishing an engine fire, but was struck by the car driven by a marshal. He suffered leg injuries but recovered in time for the next race.
Season Replacements
In 1996, Takagi was set to join Tyrrell, but the seat was ultimately given to Ukyo Katayama due to sponsorship from Japan Tobacco. Subsequently, he was announced as a driver for the Italian team Minardi in January. However, due to a last-minute withdrawal of sponsorship, the team instead hired the more talented Giancarlo Fisichella.
Post-Formula One Career
After his Formula One aspirations ended, Takagi participated in sports car racing in the Japanese GT Championship. He retired from racing in 1999 and became a driver manager in Japan. He has also worked as a sports commentator for a Japanese sports channel.