PREMA Racing have confirmed that Ugo Ugochukwu is set to make the step up to FIA Formula 3 with the Italian team next season – becoming their first driver signing for the 2025 campaign.

After a trophy-laden karting career, the McLaren Driver Development Programme member graduated to single seater racing in 2022, going on to finish third in the British F4 Championship.

Ugochukwu then had a successful 2023 with PREMA, winning the Euro 4 Championship while also finishing second in Italian F4 and third in the Formula 4 UAE Championships.

He raced with PREMA again this year in the Formula Regional European Championship where he has achieved a podium and numerous points finishes.

Following the announcement, Ugochukwu, who previously took part at all three 2023 post-season tests with Rodin Motorsport, is looking forward to making the step-up full time.

“I’m really happy to announce that I will be racing with PREMA in the 2025 FIA Formula 3 Championship,” said Ugochukwu. “Working with all the people here is special, the chemistry is excellent and it makes the work really enjoyable on and off the track. We have had two positive seasons together and I’m looking forward to building on that and I’m sure we will have a good year.”

PREMA Racing Team Principal Rene Rosin added: “We enjoyed working with Ugo in the last two years from Formula 4 to Formula Regional, and we think he has great potential. We are convinced that he will be a great fit for FIA Formula 3 next year in terms of approach and driving style. We will soon start preparations and we look forward to helping him make a smooth and successful transition to the new series.”