McLaren made public its participation in the off-road electric championship Extreme E earlier this year, still leaving behind unresolved queries about its Formula E prospects. The team’s involvement in Extreme E is solidifying with the recent announcement that Tanner Foust, a former rallycross driver, host of Top Gear USA, and Hollywood stunt driver, is set to take the reins as their male racing driver.
Every team in Extreme E has a duo of drivers who share driving duties during the time trial rounds. The lineup of drivers witnessed so far encompasses various backgrounds ranging from rallycross to touring car racing, W Series, and Formula E. Notably, even Jenson Button took part in one round. Foust brings a wealth of experience in this domain, having built a career around the art of drifting. Opting for someone like Foust in Extreme E rather than Formula One could potentially aid McLaren in expanding its fanbase in the U.S.
Extreme E
Zak Brown, the CEO of McLaren, openly expressed the team’s intention to attract new fans through the addition of Foust, as stated in the recent announcement.
“We are excited to welcome Tanner to the McLaren Racing family of drivers,” Brown commented. “He possesses top-tier off-road racing skills with extensive experience and an impressive track record. In addition to his exceptional driving abilities, he has a charismatic personality that will aid us in engaging with fans worldwide and highlighting the significant messages and values of Extreme E.”
With recent moves to sell its Applied Technology division while securing a majority stake in its IndyCar collaboration with Schmidt-Peterson, McLaren appears to be intensifying its focus on the U.S. market. This strategic shift is not surprising given the considerable growth in the F1 fanbase in the United States.
McLaren
McLaren’s participation commences from the 2022 season onward when Extreme E is slated to kick off its global Electric Odyssey once more. While the calendar is yet to be finalized (similar to the occasional disruptions faced by every racing series), Foust expressed eagerness to embrace the forthcoming challenge. “Racing for McLaren is the ultimate dream for any driver, and competing for the team in this innovative racing series adds an extra layer of excitement,” he remarked.
“The concept is truly distinct, and the challenge it presents is captivating,” Foust added. “It offers me the opportunity to leverage my extensive experience and skills while contributing to a meaningful cause that addresses critical global and societal issues.”
The identity of Foust’s co-driver will be disclosed in due course, marking McLaren’s inaugural female driver in history.
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