Woman joins McLaren Driver Development

And one more recruit for the McLaren Driver Development. After the last champion of F3 Gabriel Bortoleto or Ryo Hirakawa, pilot Toyota in the world championshipEndurance, who joined Pato O'Ward, the Woking team has secured the services of a new representative, or rather a new representative: Bianca Bustamante.

A new member of the McLaren academy, the Filipina will represent the English team during the second season of F1 Academy in 2024 during which she will drive with ART Grand Prix. Indeed, one car from each team in the 100% women's championship must wear the colors of a team of Formula 1.

« It's such a surreal moment in my career, signing with McLaren and ART Grand Prix is ​​way beyond anything I could have imagined when I was a kid racing karting in the Phillippines, she rejoices. I still find it difficult to see my name next to that of McLaren without being moved, because the history and legacy linked to this team leaves me speechless"

Aged 18, Bianca Bustamante began her career in car in 2022 by participating in the W Series, before their premature end during the season, but also in Indian Racing League and USF Juniors events.

This year, McLaren's new recruit is proving himself in F1 Academy with Prema. One round from the end of the season (this weekend on the sidelines of the United States Grand Prix), Bianca Bustamente is 7^e in the championship with 4 podiums including 2 victories.

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