United Announces First Two McLaren GT3 Driver Signings

McLaren LMGT3 team United Autosports has named Marino Sato and Gregoire Saucy as its first two driver signings for a planned two-car FIA World Endurance Championship effort next year.

Saucy is an FIA Formula 3 podium finisher while Sato made the switch from FIA F2 to sports cars this year, driving for United’s LMP2 program in the European Le Mans Series.

Both drivers will make their WEC debuts if McLaren’s entries with a pair of United-run McLaren 720S GT3 Evos is confirmed on the full-season entry list.

Saucy finished 14th in the F3 standings this year driving for ART Grand Prix, a former McLaren GT3 team, and finished on the podium at Albert Park and Monaco.

Sato, meanwhile, finished second in the ELMS LMP2 standings with United and claimed three victories.

Both drivers are FIA Gold-rated for next year, meaning they fill the requirement for a Gold or Platinum in each LMGT3 lineup.

“Marino really deserves this chance in the WEC with McLaren,” said United Autosports CEO Richard Dean.

“He has done an amazing job for United in LMP2 this year. Not only is Marino a great personality to have around the team but he has been fast and reliable on his way to winning three races out of six in his debut sports car season.”

Dean added: “We are delighted to have Gregoire join our WEC program. He has been very impressive and is a proven winner in some of the toughest championships in Europe.

“This is a big move for him to change from single seaters to sportscar, but he has impressed the team with his focus and determination and it is clear he will do what it takes to be successful in the WEC.”

Japanese racer Sato was due to form part of United’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship LMP2 lineup for next year, but his upgrade from Silver to Gold status means that he will be replaced by a driver who is yet to be announced.

“It will be a challenging season for sure,” said the 24-year-old. “But I’m very much looking forward to a lot of big races in the calendar, especially the 6 Hours of Fuji which will be my first car racing in Japan.”