Akinori Ogata Bio
Early Life and Background
Akinori Ogata was born on 14 August 1973 in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. He began his motorsports journey in 1987, starting with motocross racing, where he achieved significant success by winning thirty feature races. His early exposure to racing laid the foundation for his career, leading him to transition into dirt track racing and quarter midget racing, where he notably won at Twin Ring Motegi.
In 2003, Ogata made his entry into stock car racing by participating in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series Late Model Stock. He competed in various races, including those at Concord Motorsports Park, and secured a sponsorship deal with ENEOS in 2009, marking the company’s first foray into NASCAR sponsorship.
Path to NASCAR
Ogata’s professional racing career began in earnest when he made his K&N Pro Series East debut in 2012, driving for Jennifer McDonald. He faced challenges during his early races, including crashes and failed qualifications, but continued to pursue opportunities in the series. By 2013, he was competing as an owner/driver, showcasing his determination and commitment to the sport.
His transition to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series came in 2014 when he made his debut with Win-Tron Racing. Despite facing mechanical issues in his first race, Ogata’s persistence paid off as he continued to compete in various series, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he made his debut in 2018.
Akinori Ogata Career
Early Career (2003-2014)
In the early years of his career, Ogata focused on the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series, where he developed his skills and gained valuable experience. He made his mark by winning at Hickory Motor Speedway, becoming the first Japanese driver to achieve this feat. His early career was characterized by a series of races that helped him build a reputation in the competitive racing landscape.
Ogata’s move to the K&N Pro Series East in 2012 marked a significant step in his career, allowing him to compete at a higher level. Although he faced challenges, including crashes and qualifying issues, he demonstrated resilience and a desire to improve.
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Breakthrough (2014-2025)
Akinori Ogata made his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut on 5 November 2014, racing in the Lucas Oil 150 at Phoenix International Raceway. Despite finishing 29th due to mechanical issues, this marked the beginning of his journey in the Truck Series. He partnered with MB Motorsports in 2015, where he achieved his first top twenty finish, finishing 18th in one of the races.
After a hiatus, Ogata returned to the Truck Series in July 2020, driving for Reaume Brothers Racing. His time with the team included notable races at Texas Motor Speedway and Darlington. In 2022, he continued to compete with Reaume Brothers Racing, showcasing his commitment to the sport.
NASCAR Xfinity Series Breakthrough (2018-2022)
Ogata announced his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut on 31 October 2018, participating in the Whelen Trusted to Perform 200 at ISM Raceway. He drove the No. 66 Toyota Camry for MBM Motorsports, marking a significant milestone in his career. Over the following years, he made additional starts in the series, including races with Jimmy Means Racing and B. J. McLeod Motorsports.
His return to MBM in 2022 saw him driving the No. 13 car in races at New Hampshire and Texas, further solidifying his presence in the Xfinity Series.
Akinori Performance Era (2025-Present)
Currently, Akinori Ogata competes part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 63 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro for Akinori Performance. His experience and dedication to the sport continue to drive his participation in various series, as he aims to build on his past achievements and contribute to the racing community.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Ogata is known for his resilience and determination on the track. His experience across different racing formats has equipped him with a diverse skill set, allowing him to adapt to various racing conditions and strategies. His partnership with Akinori Performance reflects his commitment to furthering his racing career.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Akinori Ogata’s career is highlighted by his status as the first Japanese driver to win at Hickory Motor Speedway. His journey through various NASCAR series showcases his dedication and passion for racing, with each milestone contributing to his legacy in the sport.
Akinori Ogata Career Wins
Akinori Ogata has yet to secure a win in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, NASCAR Xfinity Series, or K&N Pro Series East. However, his notable achievement as the first Japanese driver to win at Hickory Motor Speedway stands out as a significant milestone in his career.
Current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Highlights
As of 2025, Ogata continues to compete in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 63 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro. While he has not recorded any wins in the series, his participation reflects his ongoing commitment to the sport and his desire to achieve greater success.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Ogata made his debut in 2018 and has participated in several races since then. Although he has not secured a win, his experience in the series has contributed to his growth as a driver.
Akinori Ogata Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Details regarding Akinori Ogata’s family background and lineage in NASCAR are limited. However, his dedication to the sport and achievements as a driver reflect a strong commitment to racing.
Personal Life
In December 2016, Ogata faced a personal challenge when a thief broke into his garage, stealing his pickup truck and a Legends car intended for his son, Ryo. The incident highlighted the challenges that can arise outside of racing, but Ogata’s focus remains on his career and contributions to the sport.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, Akinori Ogata is competing part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. His current season has seen him participating in several races, with a focus on improving his performance and achieving better results. The dynamics within his team, Akinori Performance, play a crucial role in his racing strategy as he aims to build momentum throughout the season. While he has faced challenges, Ogata’s experience and determination continue to drive his efforts on the track.
