Brazillian, but of Japanese descent, hence his name. Raced in touring cars until 1998. Now concentrates on the family agriculture business and car dealership, as well as having business interests in Europe. The family also runs a snack food and car dealership concern and Norio is also involved with this. The family fortune helped Norio, but he won the Brazilian Formula Ford Championship on his own merit in 1992.

Biography last updated 19 Oct 2010