After parting ways with Rene Rast, McLaren has confirmed its first driver for the 2024 Formula E season: Jake Hughes will continue to drive for the British team
Jake Hughes will continue to race for McLaren in the 2024 Formula E World Championship. The British team announced on Thursday (17 August) that it had extended Hughes’ contract. Earlier, McLaren had confirmed that Hughes’ previous teammate Rene Rast will leave the team after just one season.
“I am very happy that I will continue to drive for the McLaren Formula E team next season,” Hughes said. “The team has been my home for a number of years and I have enjoyed every minute of it.”
Hughes initially competed in Formula E as a test and development driver for Mercedes’ factory team from 2021. Following the German carmaker’s exit, the team was taken over by McLaren and Hughes was promoted to regular driver.
Hughes finished his first season in the electric racing series in twelfth place overall with 48 points. However, he set individual highlights with pole positions in Diriyah (Saudi Arabia) and Monaco. “We had a bit of a mixed season, but I had a lot of personal highlights that I hope I can build on next year with the team and fight for wins and podiums,” says Hughes.
One of the highlights for Hughes was also setting a new indoor speed record ahead of the season finale in London in July.
McLaren team boss Ian James is looking forward to continuing to work with his fellow Brit. “Although we never doubted his achievements, he has impressed the team and the entire paddock with a great rookie season,” he says. “Jake’s commitment to the team and Formula E is outstanding.”
Following Rast’s departure, the second McLaren cockpit for the 2024 Formula E season is still vacant. The first candidate is former Jaguar driver Sam Bird, who was ousted by Nick Cassidy at the manufacturer.
