Mika Häkkinen’s Daughter, Ella, Joins McLaren Driver progress Programme
In a notable move signaling the next generation of motorsport talent, Ella Hakkinen, the 14-year-old daughter of two-time Formula 1 World Champion Mika Häkkinen, has been accepted into the prestigious McLaren Driver Development Programme. This announcement marks a pivotal moment for the young racer and underscores McLaren’s commitment to nurturing future F1 stars.
Hakkinen’s inclusion makes her the youngest driver ever to join the McLaren programme.She arrives with a promising karting record, having secured multiple wins and podium finishes across Europe. This development is particularly noteworthy as it highlights the growing opportunities for young drivers, and especially women, within the sport.
Rising Stars join McLaren’s Ranks
Ella Hakkinen won’t be alone in representing McLaren’s future. She is joined by British karting champion Ella Stevens, 19, who holds the distinction of being the only woman to win in Britain’s premier karting class.Stevens, alongside fellow Briton ella Lloyd, 20, will compete in the all-female F1 Academy series in 2026, representing the McLaren team.
McLaren has outlined plans for Hakkinen to begin testing single-seater cars in preparation for a potential racing debut in 2027. This structured approach will allow her to develop the necessary skills and experience to transition to higher levels of motorsport.
The addition of these talented young drivers demonstrates McLaren’s dedication to identifying and cultivating the next wave of Formula 1 competitors, and to promoting diversity within the sport.
Source: McLaren Racing
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