McLaren sign 13yo driver on long-term deal

McLaren Racing has signed a long-term deal with 13-year-old American driver Ugo Ugochukwu.

Ugochukwu, who began karting in New York State in 2013, is one of the sport’s rising stars and was recently crowned FIA European champion.

“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,” McLaren said.

Ugochukwu, currently competing in Europe in the OK Senior class, won four titles in the US before winning the 2020 FIA OKJ European Championship.

“We’ve been watching Ugo’s progress with interest,” McLaren Racing chief executive officer Zak Brown said.

“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.”

McLaren, who currently compete in Formula 1 and Indycar, will contest this year’s Formula 1 World Championship with Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo.