McLaren has announced their first Extreme E driver signing, after revealing in June their plans to compete in the all electric SUV racing championship.
American four time rallycross champion Tanner Foust, will compete next year for McLaren, who become the first Formula One team to take part in the championship. As well as a wealth of rallycross experience, Foust has competed in two Formula Drift championships and won four X Games gold medals. Off track he has hosted the American version of motoring TV show Top Gear.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has said in a statement: “We are thrilled that Tanner has joined the McLaren Racing family of drivers. He is a top-class off-road competitor with a wealth of experience and a winning record. Alongside his driving prowess, he’s a fantastic personality, who will help us connect with new fans around the world and bring the purpose and important messages of Extreme E to the fore,”
“We are looking forward to announcing Tanner’s team mate and our first female McLaren driver, to complete our exciting line-up.”
Extreme E is currently in it’s inaugural season, with the third round of the championship being held at the end of this month in Greenland for the Arctic X Prix. Foust explained that this opportunity is special with Extreme E being such a unique sport.
Image Credit: Getty Images
“To be able to race for McLaren is every driver’s dream and the opportunity to compete for the team in this innovative and imaginative racing series makes it even more special,” Foust said in a statement. “The concept is unique and the challenge compelling. It will enable me to draw on all my experience and skills, while being part of a positive cause addressing key issues for our planet and society.”
Their decision to race in Extreme E next year was made after a detailed evaluation of the championship. With the all electric series raising awareness of the impact of climate change in locations around the globe, as well as highlighting sustainability and diversity through racing, competing in the series will help drive McLaren’s own sustainability and diversity goals.
With Extreme E also setting an example to the car industry, by helping develop future technology, this will also accelerate McLaren’s efforts in becoming a leader in electric motorsport.
Headline Image: McLaren
