61-Year-Old Japanese Professional Racer and Team Owner Shigeaki Hattori Dies in Huntersville Crash
Shigeaki Hattori, a prominent figure in Japanese motorsport, tragically passed away in a car crash on the evening of April 6, 2025, in Huntersville, North Carolina. The 61-year-old race car driver and team owner, best known for his involvement in both Japanese and American racing circuits, was killed when his vehicle collided with a tree on a rural stretch of road. The crash not only took the life of Hattori but has also left the motorsport community grieving the loss of a respected figure who had contributed so much to the sport.
Hattori’s racing career spanned decades, with him initially gaining fame in Japan for his skillful performances in touring car races before making the leap to American racing. He was particularly known for his time in the NASCAR Truck Series, where he became the first Japanese driver to compete full-time in the series. Hattori’s accomplishments on the track were paired with his efforts off it, where he later founded Hattori Racing Enterprises, a team that made a significant impact in the NASCAR world.
In the years following his own racing career, Hattori transitioned into team ownership and management, leading his team to numerous successes in various racing leagues. His leadership helped nurture the careers of several drivers, and under his guidance, Hattori Racing Enterprises became a respected name in NASCAR and beyond. Hattori was admired not only for his competitive spirit but also for his dedication to building a bridge between Japanese motorsports and American racing.
According to initial reports, the crash occurred around 9 p.m. on April 6 when Hattori was driving alone in a luxury sedan. Investigators believe that the cause of the accident was a combination of factors, including road conditions and potential mechanical failure. The vehicle veered off the road and struck a tree with significant force. Emergency responders arrived at the scene but were unable to revive Hattori, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
As the news of Hattori’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across the racing world. Drivers, teams, and fans alike expressed their shock and sorrow at the loss of a man who had not only been a fierce competitor but also a mentor and inspiration to many in the racing community. NASCAR President Steve Phelps issued a statement expressing condolences to Hattori’s family and acknowledging the profound impact he had on motorsports in both Japan and the United States.
Shigeaki Hattori’s legacy as a trailblazer for Japanese drivers in American racing will continue to be remembered. His team, Hattori Racing Enterprises, has been a key contributor to the success of several young drivers, and his role in bridging the gap between two major racing cultures has earned him respect far beyond the track. Hattori’s passing marks a significant loss not only for his family but for the entire motorsport world, as the community mourns the loss of a driver and team owner whose passion and determination made him a beloved figure in the sport.
As the investigation into the crash continues, Hattori’s family and close friends are being supported by their racing community, who continue to honor his memory and the lasting impact he made.
