Sato in talks over reserve driver role

Takuma Sato is in talks with Red Bull chiefs about a role as the official reserve driver for both of the company's Formula One teams this year, autosport.com has learned.

The Japanese driver missed out in the battle for the second Scuderia Toro Rosso race seat to Sebastien Bourdais, but could yet end up working with the outfit.

Autosport.com understands he is currently in discussions about a reserve role for Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso, which could see him drafted into action should any of the team's regulars be unable to compete.

Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz has confirmed the talks, and admitted that although not chosen for a race seat there was still interest in using the Japanese.

"He has a good reputation in Japan," said Mateschitz. "He could work with us very well".

Sato is currently weighing up his options for 2009, with his priority to return to racing for the first time since Super Aguri folded at the start of last year.

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