McLaren signs 13-year-old Nigerian driver Ugo Ugochukwu

McLaren Racing have announced the signing of a 13-year-old Nigerian driver Ugo Ugochukwu on a long-term deal.

The American born promising driver of Nigerian descent recently won the European karting champion.

Ugo 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.

According McLaren, 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.”