McLaren has further expanded its training program with the arrival of Ella Häkkinen, daughter of two-time world champion Mika Häkkinen, and Ella Stevens. With these drivers, the team aims to provide even more opportunities for women in motorsport, and is steadily building a strong talent pool in Woking. CEO Zak Brown ‘can’t wait’ to see the new additions in action.
Fourteen-year-old Ella Häkkinen, who is following in her father’s footsteps, expressed her excitement about her new step: “I am very excited to be part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme. It’s an exciting prospect to work with the team and learn from everyone. I look forward to seeing my progress over the next few years; it’s going to be fun.” Mika Häkkinen, who won two titles with McLaren between 1998 and 1999, already praised his daughter during the Singapore GP. “Ella is an extremely talented driver,” said the proud father. “I’m not just saying this as a father, but also as a former top driver. I see it with my own eyes.”
“I am super excited to be part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme,” added Ella Stevens. “It’s a huge milestone in my career, and it’s great to be part of a team that pays so much attention to development.” In addition to the new talents, Ella Lloyd remains active. The Welsh driver is in her second full season in the F1 Academy at McLaren and Rodin Motorsport, after impressing as a wildcard in 2024. Lloyd is currently third in the championship, with one victory and four additional podium finishes to her name.
Female Representation
McLaren CEO Zak Brown is delighted with the new additions. In an official response, he expresses his pride in the progress McLaren has made in the area of ‘female representation’. “While I acknowledge that there is still much to be done, I am proud of the steps we have already taken. I hope this sends a signal to all the incredibly talented female karters, drivers, engineers, mechanics, marketers, and accountants that our sport is open to everyone.”
“There are so many opportunities, both on and off the track,” he added. “It’s truly wonderful to now have three talented young female drivers in our training program. I can’t wait to see them on the track.”
