McLaren’s team manager, Benjamin Schmidt, has drawn intriguing comparisons between 17-year-old Ugo Ugochukwu and rising F1 star Oscar Piastri following the American’s dominant victory at the prestigious Macau Grand Prix last weekend.
Ugochukwu, who is part of McLaren’s junior program, showcased a commanding performance, leading every lap from pole position to secure the victory.
Schmidt, speaking to Autosport, praised Ugochukwu’s composed demeanor, likening it to Piastri’s calm and methodical approach.
“The behavior of Ugo is always really calm. And I think it’s a key factor for the drivers,” Schmidt remarked.
“He’s looking at the data, he is understanding things, and never saying something higher or lower in his emotions. He’s just always consistent in his behavior.”
Schmidt highlighted that Ugochukwu’s ability to manage his emotions and remain focused under pressure was a trait he shared with Piastri, who also raced for R-ace GP before making his rise to Formula 1.
“He is constant in the emotions,” Schmidt noted, emphasizing the importance of emotional control in the fast-paced world of motorsport.
Having tested with McLaren several times, Ugochukwu’s impressive preparation and maturity stood out even before his victory at Macau.
Schmidt expressed immense satisfaction with Ugochukwu’s performance, stating, “He’s definitely a good driver, quite talented. He has a huge experience as well, which makes these things a bit easier for him.”
Ugochukwu’s impressive career has been marked by significant achievements, including winning the CIK-FIA Karting European Championship in 2020 and securing runner-up finishes in both the Italian and British F4 series in subsequent years.
His triumph at Macau is another significant milestone as he continues to develop his potential, making him a promising prospect for McLaren’s future.