McLaren confirm exit of star driver

McLaren has announced that Jake Hughes has left its Formula E team following the conclusion of the season, which ended just over a week ago in London. 

Hughes completed two seasons with the team and made an emphatic impression after claiming four pole positions and a podium across his first two years in FE. 

The Briton has worked for the team across the past four-and-a-half years, with it having initially been known as Mercedes-EQ. 

Hughes is remaining in the championship and has been confirmed as a new Maserati driver.

“Leaving the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team will feel very strange for me in the coming weeks, based on the fact this team has been my home for the last four and a half years," said Hughes. 

"I have a lot of thanks to give to so many different people within the team for what they have given me, and how they have prepared me and allowed me to grow into the racing driver I am today.

“Everything I am in Formula E is down to this team, and for that I am extremely grateful. I wish the team all the best, and I have no doubt that we’ll have some good times racing on track against each other in the future.”

As mentioned, Hughes was part of the team during its 2022 transition from Mercedes-EQ to McLaren.

The Briton played a critical role in McLaren having an instant impact in FE, by claiming pole in just his and the team's third race back in Saudi Arabian last year. 

“Jake has made a significant contribution to this team over the years, both on and off the track, and we are incredibly grateful for his input and dedication throughout," said team principal, Ian James.

“During this time, he has flourished into a proven talent in Formula E; particular highlights being his four pole positions – of which one came in only his third ever event in Formula E – and his P2 finish in Shanghai this year.

"On a personal note, I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Jake. Alongside his natural talent as a driver, he is a consummate professional and yet has an easy sense of humour which has endeared him to all in the Formula E paddock.”