Formula 3: Ugo Ugochukwu becomes first F3 champion from the United States

Ugo Ugochukwu secured the title after finishing second in the season finale for Campos Racing at the newly opened Madrid street circuit. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Former McLaren junior Ugo Ugochukwu made history at the Spanish Grand Prix by becoming the first American to win the FIA Formula 3 championship.

The 19-year-old, who stands out for his height, secured the title after finishing second in the season finale for Campos Racing at the Madrid street circuit, ending the campaign 14 points ahead of Audi junior Freddie Slater. Slater, 18, had arrived at the final weekend holding a 15-point advantage over his U.S. rival, but Ugochukwu’s consistent performance flipped the standings in his favour.

ALSO READ | Ajith Kumar ends Silverstone Le Mans Cup race 38th overall; Vijay flags off event

Formula 3 sits one step below Formula 2 on the official pathway to Formula 1, and Ugochukwu now joins a roll of honour that includes recent F1 drivers Oscar Piastri from McLaren and Gabriel Bortoleto from Audi.

“We knew we just had to keep it clean to clinch the title, and that’s what we did. No mistakes, brought it home and super pleased,” Ugochukwu said.