Formula 1

McLaren opts for all-new F1 Esports driver line-up

by Nathan Quinn
2 min read

McLaren has unveiled an entirely new driver line-up for the 2021 F1 Esports Pro Series, including 2018 runner-up Dani Bereznay.

Joining the former Alfa Romeo driver are Josh Idowu, who was a part of the McLaren Shadow Academy, and Bari Boroumand, who contested one race for Mercedes in the 2020 Pro Series.

Idowu will make his F1 Esports Pro Series debut, having earned his place through the earlier Challengers and Pro Exhibition events. He was the runner-up in the PC Challengers series, having won three of the 10 races. In the Pro Exhibition event held in May, Idowu won both the race at Bahrain and the one-lap knockout event at Silverstone in the PC division.

Despite getting minimal action in the Pro Series, Boroumand had competed in the PSGL simracing league where he finished second in the championship, behind only the reigning F1 Esports champion Jarno Opmeer. Second in the standings still meant he outscored other established F1 Esports drivers including Alvaro Carreton and Dani Moreno.

In the 2020 Pro Series Bereznay finished on the podium on five occasions for Alfa Romeo and ended up fifth in the drivers’ championship.

McLaren Shadow F1 Esports

“We are thrilled to announce the new McLaren Shadow line-up ahead of our fourth season competing in the F1 Esports Series.” said Leeston Bryant, Manager of McLaren Racing esports.

“Josh is a hugely exciting prospect and is testament to our McLaren Shadow Academy, as it now cultivates talent that goes on to represent us in elite sim racing.

“Meanwhile, Dani and Bari bring a wealth of experience as we look to push forward and compete at the top in what is an exciting time for the team, and our wider esports and gaming programme.”

While two of the drivers who raced for McLaren last year, James Baldwin and Matthias Cologon, haven’t been confirmed at any team for this season, another former McLaren driver Moreno will be racing for Mercedes’ esports outfit.

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