Shigeaki Hattori, a former race car driver and owner of Hattori Racing Enterprises, died at the age of 61 following a traffic accident on April 5, 2025, in Huntersville, North Carolina.
According to the Huntersville Police Department, Hattori’s Toyota Crown was traveling westbound on NC Highway 73 when it crossed the centerline and collided with an oncoming vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities do not believe speed or impairment were contributing factors. The incident remains under investigation.
Hattori began his racing career in Japan before moving to the United States in the 1990s. He competed in multiple series, including Indy Lights and the IndyCar Series. In 2008, he transitioned to team ownership and founded Hattori Racing Enterprises. The team rose to prominence with a NASCAR Camping World Truck Series championship win in 2018.
Hattori was known for his determination, focus, and passion for motorsports. He was widely respected in the racing community and remembered for his leadership, competitive spirit, and sense of humor.
His passing is considered a significant loss to the motorsports world, both in the United States and in Japan, where his career first began.
