Bird joins Hughes at McLaren

Sam Bird joins Jake Hughes at NEOM McLaren for the 2024 Formula E season. 

The British driver starts his 10th season in Formula E with the British team, replacing the out-going Rene Rast. 

Bird spent the last three seasons racing with Jaguar Racing alongside Mitch Evans, taking two race victories and a further five podium finishes.  

Bird’s record of winning in every season was broken in 2022, when the best he managed was a P4 overall. The Brit hasn’t been on the top step of the podium since New York in 2021, but aims to be back at the front of the field with McLaren. 

“I’m super excited to get going with the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team,” Bird said. “Becoming part of a team with so much heritage and prestige as the McLaren Racing family feels special. 

“We know there is some work to do ahead of Season 10 to ensure we get to where we want to be, which is at the front of the Formula E pack. It feels great to be part of the team and I can’t wait to kick off the season preparations. I’m super motivated and driven to deliver success with the team in Season 10.” 

Bird will partner Jake Hughes, who joined McLaren for his maiden season in Formula E at the start of the season. 

Hughes impressed, taking a pole position in his third race and finishing 12th in the championship standings.  

“It’s great to be able to share the news that Sam will be joining the team for Season 10 alongside Jake,” said McLaren team principal Ian James. “Sam is a proven force in Formula E, as well as other categories of racing, and his experience and determination will fuel the team ahead of an exciting season to come. As soon as the deal was done, his first question to me was when he could come into the office to start the preparations for season 10 – this clearly shows his hunger and commitment to making Season 10 a success for the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team. Having both Sam and Jake on board has already instilled confidence in the team.” 

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown added: “It is a pleasure to welcome Sam to the McLaren Racing family. Throughout his time in Formula E, Sam has proven himself to be an impressive talent, and we are eager to leverage his experience and expertise to help bring the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team further success in Season 10. Alongside Jake, I’m confident that we have one of the strongest pairings on the Formula E grid. Bring on Season 10!” 

 Image courtesy of NEOM McLaren