McLaren officially unveil new driver signing

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McLaren officially unveil new driver signing

The team are already planning for the future

Kevin McKenna

Tuesday 3 September 2024 18:00 Updated: 17:52

McLaren have announced the signing of a new driver as they look to continue building for the future.

The iconic British team have been this season's surprise package in Formula 1, emerging as realistic challengers to Red Bull's recent dominance.

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Spearheaded by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, they have overhauled the reigning constructors' champions at the top of the standings, and with just six races of the 2024 season remaining, are well-placed to secure a first title since 1998.

And it could be a double celebration if Norris can maintain his fine recent form, with the 26-year-old just 52 points behind Red Bull star and drivers' championship leader Max Verstappen going into the final stages of the year.

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are enjoying stellar seasons at McLaren

The all-female F1 Academy series debuted this year

Young star 'can't wait to get racing'

And the 19-year-old will soon have the chance to show what she can do on the track when she represents the team in next season's F1 Academy.

Having impressed bosses with fine displays in the Formula Winter Series and British F4 series earlier this year, she has been tipped to make a big impact in the all-female competition.

19-year-old Ella Lloyd has joined McLaren's Driver Development programme

In a statement released by the team, Lloyd said: “I’m really excited to be joining the McLaren Driver Development programme as the team’s F1 Academy driver in 2025.

"It’s an honour to drive for a team that has such a great racing history, and also a long track record for developing talent.

"With McLaren, I now have everything I need to keep developing and pushing the boundaries as a female in motorsport.

"Thank you to Zak Brown, Stephanie Carlin and the entire McLaren team for their faith in me. I can’t wait to get racing in papaya.”

Red Bull Max Verstappen McLaren Lando Norris Oscar Piastri F1 Academy