Ugo Ugochukwu is set to make his FIA F3 debut PREMA Racing at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. After an impressive career in the junior feeder series, which included winning the 2024 Macau GP, and finishing runner-up in the 2023 Italian F4 Championship, the American driver is now set to tackle a new challenge in the third tier of FIA-sanctioned formula racing.
Ugochukwu aiming to do “the best possible job” in Melbourne
While responding to a question from Pit Debrief at a recent virtual media event, Ugochukwu admitted that, realistically, he would need time to get used to his F3 challenger. He also identified his expectations for the first round to the 2025 championship.
“Yeah, of course. First race of the season. Also with a new car as well. So, definitely a lot of things to still learn throughout the weekend. But of course, expectations are always going to be high, and I’m just going into it, you know, no pressure. Just try to do the best possible job.”
As one of several 2025 F3 debutants, the American driver is thrilled to be able to race with the historically-successful PREMA team, with who he previously worked with in 2023. He told media, including Pit Debrief, that he is “super excited” to make his debut, and while he acknowledges that he will need to “get on top of it”, he is eager to get a good start to the season
“Obviously very excited to get the season underway. It’s going to be a new championship for me. Of course, a new track here in Melbourne. I’ll have to get on top of it. Super excited to get the season started, and we want to try to start the season as well as possible”
Ugochukwu unfazed by time difference in Melbourne
One challenge that Ugochukwu will not be bothered by is jetlag. Though he acknowledged the great time difference between Melbourne and Europe, he believes that he has adapted well and is prepared to race.
“The time difference is really big compared to Europe. So, we knew it was going to be a big change. Most of us came out here a little bit earlier just to get used to the time zone. Have a good plan on the plane and stuff to make sure we’re able to adapt as much as possible when we get here. But, yes, I’m feeling good right now. It worked out pretty well”
Ugochukwu looking forward to “whatever the weather brings”
With tricky conditions predicted, the weather in Melbourne may not work in the F3 drivers’ favour. With rain forecast throughout the weekend, the inexperienced drivers may struggle around the notoriously tricky Albert Park Circuit. Ugochukwu, however, is not worried. Instead, he looks forward to the challenge that the rainy weather may pose.
“Yeah, we’ll see. We’ll see what the weather brings. Of course, a bit of wet weather for sure will make things more interesting. Also, a bit of a street track around here, so not a lot of room for mistakes in those conditions. To be honest, I’m just looking forward to whatever the weather brings us.”
F3 a whole new world for Ugochukwu
Ugochukwu, who has also driven for Carlin, also expanded on what will be the hardest thing to get used to during his first-ever weekend of Formula 3.
“Biggest challenges will probably be adapting to the circuit. New track, so we’re going to try to get on top of that in the FP. Of course, we’re not going to get many laps before quali, so just trying to adapt as quickly as possible.
“Going to be high-track evolution as well through the qualifying sessions. So yeah, I think that will be the most difficult part, but we’re going to do our best to be on top of everything and make sure we’re in a good position when we get to qualifying.”
A great help
The American driver can also count on the support of the McLaren Driver Development Programme as he prepares for the Australian GP. The young talent joined the programme in 2021, following a successful karting career.
The PREMA driver highlighted the important role such entities play in smoothing their affiliates’ transition from junior to professional racing:
“It’s really good to be part of McLaren. I’ve been with them for a little while. But, yeah, it’s really good to be supported by such a great team in the sport. I think I can learn a lot from them. I have been the past few seasons. They really helped my development throughout my career. They made sure I’m ready for the next step, which is now F3.”
Productive pre-season a great learning opportunity for PREMA rookie
It will not be Ugochukwu ’s first approach with a F3 car. In fact, all the grid had been involved in a three days testing session held in Barcelona earlier this year. That has been a great learning opportunity for all parts involved.
“We had the pre-season test in Barcelona, so, those three days were good to try to understand the new car as much as possible and get a bit of a feeling before coming here.”
However, it has not been the only way to get ready for the trip to Melbourne.
“Of course, we did a lot of prep in the simulator, just reviewing past races here as well. So, just to try to be as prepared as possible going into the weekend.”
