2013 BRDC F4 champion Hughes secures McLaren Formula E drive

2013 BRDC F4 champion Hughes secures McLaren Formula E drive

30 November 2022

Jake Hughes has been confirmed in NEOM McLaren’s line-up for the 2022-23 FIA Formula E season, alongside Rene Rast.

The 2013 BRDC F4 Champion has been a regular winner in GP3 and FIA Formula 3 since his F4 campaign, and competed in FIA Formula 2 for the past couple of seasons, alongside his role as Mercedes Formula E reserve driver.

He was also the simulator driver for the Mercedes F1 squad, but now switches to a full-time Formula E role for the first time, as McLaren takes over the Mercedes entry in the category.

Hughes won the BRDC F4 title with Lanan Racing, with four victories and six further podium finishes,up against drivers including Seb Morris, Charlie Robertson, Raoul Hyman and Pietro Fittipaldi. 

“First and foremost, I’m very proud and feel very privileged to become part of the McLaren Racing family, being given the chance to represent such a prestigious brand” Hughes said.

“Growing up, McLaren was one of the teams that inspired me to start racing. To now go full circle, representing the team myself in Formula E feels incredible. I’ve obviously been with the Formula E team in a different guise before and we have already achieved great results. It’s good to have that relationship and I know what’s expected of me.”

“Coming in at a time where a new generation car is introduced in the series excites me. It feels like a good opportunity and chance, especially being a rookie in Season 9. It’s set to be a great year and I can’t wait to kick off the journey ahead!”

McLaren CEO Zak Brown said: “I am delighted to announce our full driver line-up for our inaugural season in Formula E. A hugely exciting prospect in single seater competition, Jake also has a history with the team as a development and reserve driver. Alongside René, who is particularly skilled in a wide range of series, which includes previous experience in Formula E, I believe that this pairing will be crucial in helping us hit the ground running in our first season in the series as the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team.”

NEOM McLaren Formula E Team Principal Ian James added: “I’m excited to work together with René and Jake this upcoming season. They are both incredibly talented people, and I think they will both bring something different to the mix.

“Jake is an exciting talent, who we have worked with before as our Reserve and Development driver. Over the years, the team and Jake have built a relationship, and that, combined with his sheer talent, will be what can give us an edge going into this season. We’ve given Jake a chance to prove himself on the big stage in Season 9, and his story is a perfect example of the talent development that we believe in as a team.”

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