Racing driver Sara Matsui has been appointed as an official ambassador for RAYS.
Sara Matsui is a racing driver who has been selected for the Williams Driver Academy and is active in racing both in Japan and internationally. Her continued pursuit of competing in races such as Formula 1, the Indy 500, and the WEC demonstrates strong potential as a figure who can help create new value in motorsports.
We believe that supporting the challenges of young talent who will lead the next generation and contributing to the development of the motorsports industry is an important role for our company.
As an official ambassador, she will contribute to further enhancing our brand value through a wide range of activities, including sharing insights gained from the motorsports field, participating in events, and providing feedback for product development.
■ Profile: Sara Matsui
Born October 26, 2010 (15 years old)
She began racing karts at the age of five and achieved numerous results in domestic competitions from her junior years. In 2018, she became the first female series champion in the Haruna Cup Comer 60 class. In 2020, she made history again by becoming the first female winner in the JAF Junior Kart Championship FP-Jr Cadets class, showing her talent from an early age.
She has since continued to win races and series titles across various categories. In 2024, she was selected for the Williams Driver Academy. She has also achieved strong results internationally, including 2nd place in the WSK Super Master Series and 3rd place in the Champions of the Future Academy Program (UAE).
From 2026, she is scheduled to compete in the KYOJO CUP with KONDO RACING.
Former Williams F1 mechanic Katsuhiro Shirahata has also been appointed as an official ambassador for RAYS.
Katsuhiro Shirahata worked as a mechanic for the prestigious Williams F1 team from 2006 to 2022, gaining extensive experience at the highest level of motorsport. The mindset and dedication to precision required in the extreme environment of Formula 1 strongly align with our company’s approach to manufacturing.
We believe his wealth of knowledge and experience shares many common values with us and holds great potential in creating and communicating new value to the world.
As an official ambassador, he will contribute to further enhancing our brand value through a wide range of activities, including sharing motorsports expertise, appearing at events, and providing feedback on product development.
■ Profile: Katsuhiro Shirahata
Born in 1973, from Chiba Prefecture.
He worked as a mechanic and pit crew member for the Williams F1 team, gaining hands-on experience at the pinnacle of motorsport. Currently, he shares his knowledge through media appearances, technical commentary, and lectures, contributing insights gained from the F1 field back to society.
He provides practical perspectives on performing under extreme conditions, the importance of preparation, and the value of advanced teamwork, all based on his real-world experience.