Former McLaren development driver, Ugo Ugochukwu, has emerged champion of the Formula Regional Oceania Trophy, achieving the feat just three months after parting ways with the Formula 1 team. The 18-year-old racer delivered an impressive and consistent campaign, underlining his resilience and growing reputation in junior single-seater racing.
Ugochukwu secured the title with four race wins from 15 outings, finishing the season 15 points ahead of Audi F1 junior driver Freddie Slater. His dominance was not only reflected in victories but also in remarkable consistency, as he stood on the podium in every round of the championship. Across the season, he finished outside the top 10 only twice, making him one of the most reliable performers on the grid.
Speaking after sealing the title at the New Zealand Grand Prix, Ugochukwu described the moment as emotional and intense. “Amazing feeling honestly to cross the line,” he said. “The race felt way longer than usual, just happy to get it done, to get it over with, and get the championship.”
Reflecting on the season as a whole, the young driver praised his team’s effort and support. “It’s been a really good campaign, really good season. I can’t thank the whole team enough. They did a mega job all year and I’m happier for them than even for me,” he added.
The title victory was nearly threatened at the season finale after a left-front suspension failure during qualifying resulted in a technical breach, forcing him to start the race from 13th on the grid. Despite the setback, Ugochukwu remained focused and scored enough points to clinch the championship.
“It hasn’t been easy,” he admitted. “I had to put it behind me and look at the bigger picture and get the championship.”
Ugochukwu will now step up to his second FIA Formula 3 season with Campos Racing, with the new campaign set to begin on March 6 to 8 at the Australian Grand Prix.
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