McLaren have announced that they have signed a long-term agreement with Ugo Ugochukwu, the promising young driver from the USA, who was recently crowned FIA European karting champion.
The 13-year-old American has proven to be a revelation, already securing several titles in his young career in the US and Europe, and most recently winning the 2020 FIA OKJ European Championship.
The agreement provides McLaren Racing with an option on Ugo’s services in the future, while supporting his development and evolution as he progresses through the junior categories of motorsport.
Zak Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing, said: “We’ve been watching Ugo’s progress with interest, so when the opportunity to sign an agreement with him became available, we had no hesitation moving on it. Now we’ll focus on giving Ugo the right support when he needs it to help him fulfil his potential.”
Andreas Seidl, Team Principal, McLaren F1, said: “Ugo is a promising young talent with strong development prospects. While he is still early in his career, it is clear he has the ingredients to be successful in the sport. This signing reflects our refocused approach to identifying and supporting new talent, away from a formal young driver programme to a more tailored basis.”
Ugo Ugochukwu, said: “I’m honoured to be signed by such an iconic team as McLaren Racing so early in my career. To have the support of McLaren is fantastic and what any young driver dreams of. I’m focused right now on developing as a driver and racer, so having McLaren by my side can only help me on and off the track.”
About Ugo Ugochukwu
Ugo is regarded as one of karting’s rising stars. Since he began karting in New York State in 2013, Ugo has gone on to race across the United States and Europe. The 13-year-old American has already shown his talent by winning the following series:
- 2014 Micro Rok USA Championship
- 2015 Florida Winter Tour Micromax Championship
- 2017 International Open X30 Mini Championship
- 2017 All Star X30 Mini Championship
- 2018 Challenge of the Americas Rok Junior Championship
- 2020 FIA OKJ European Championship