Daisuke Nagai, a contemporary and classmate of Katsuyuki Mori, is one of Japan’s most admired Auto Race riders.
Fans are captivated by his smooth and elegant riding style, and his ability to explode off the line with incredible speed.
While he can overtake opponents when needed, his true strength lies in leading from the front — a master of start-and-run domination.
The Long Wait for Glory
Despite his natural talent and strong performances, Nagai was long known as the “King Without a Crown.”
While his peers and even younger riders captured SG titles, Nagai struggled to achieve that elusive victory.
Everyone believed he would win “next time,” yet the win never seemed to come.
But destiny rewards persistence.
After 11 years of racing, the unfulfilled genius finally had his moment.
The Breakthrough at Isesaki
At the SG Auto Race Grand Prix held at Isesaki, Nagai faced a star-studded field — including his fellow classmate Katsuyuki Mori.
In a thrilling final, Nagai’s specialty — a lightning start followed by a flawless escape — earned him his long-awaited first SG victory.
That day, the “King Without a Crown” finally claimed his throne.
A True Champion’s Record
Since that breakthrough, Daisuke Nagai has gone on to capture multiple SG titles, proving his adaptability and consistency.
He even achieved an extraordinary feat — winning from every gate position (1 through 8), a record that showcases his ability to win from anywhere on the grid.
Few riders in history can match that balance of speed, precision, and strategy.
Beyond the Track
Off the circuit, Nagai is known for his passion for soccer — he once traveled all the way to Barcelona, Spain, just to watch a match live.
He has even named some of his racing machines after famous football players.
A graduate of Aoyama Gakuin University, Nagai’s story isn’t without hardship.
After his father’s business failure, he faced financial difficulties early in life — yet through sheer determination, he rose to become one of Japan’s top-earning Auto Race professionals.
Still a Force to Be Reckoned With
Even today, Nagai remains a constant contender in Grade Races and SG finals.
While younger generations are emerging fast, many fans believe that Daisuke Nagai’s next championship is only a matter of time.
