Meet Ugo Ugochukwu, the teen rising star in motorsport

At just 17 years old, Ugo Ugochukwu has already made history and cemented his place as one of the brightest young talents in motorsport.

With a unique blend of skill, determination, and global appeal, the Nigerian-American racing prodigy is on a trajectory that could take him to the pinnacle of racing, Formula One.

Background

Born on April 23, 2007, in New York City, Ugo Ugochukwu Orlandi hails from a richly diverse background.

His mother, Oluchi Onweagba, is a Nigerian supermodel, while his father, Luca Orlandi, is an Italian fashion designer.

This mix of cultures has shaped Ugochukwu’s identity, giving him a global perspective and appeal both on and off the racetrack.

Karting beginnings

Ugochukwu’s racing journey began in the United States, where he quickly made a name for himself in the competitive world of karting.

By 2014, he had won the Micro ROK Cup USA, followed by a victory in the Florida Winter Tour in 2015. Recognizing his talent, Ugochukwu moved to Europe to compete in elite karting championships.

In 2017, he clinched the X30 Mini category at the IAME International Open, and in 2020, he won the FIA OK-Junior European Karting Championship, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s most promising young drivers.

Stepping into formula racing

In 2022, Ugochukwu made his debut in single-seaters, competing in the British F4 Championship with Carlin.

He wasted no time making an impact, securing three wins, earning Rookie Cup honors, and finishing third overall in the championship.

His performance caught the attention of Prema Racing, one of motorsport’s most renowned teams, which he joined later that year.

With Prema, Ugochukwu delivered stellar performances in the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 Championships, earning multiple podiums.

In 2023, he narrowly missed the Italian F4 Championship title but claimed the inaugural Euro 4 Championship, further cementing his reputation as a rising star.

Formula regional success

In 2024, Ugochukwu stepped up to the Formula Regional European Championship with Prema Racing, securing a victory at Monza and finishing 11th overall.

However, his crowning achievement that year came at the Macau Grand Prix, where he represented R-ace GP.

Dominating the race from start to finish, Ugochukwu became the first American to win the prestigious event since Bob Earl in 1981, securing the FIA Formula Regional World Cup title in the process.

A bright future in Motorsport

Looking ahead, Ugochukwu is set to compete with Prema Racing in the 2025 FIA Formula 3 Championship, continuing his climb toward Formula One.

As a member of the McLaren Driver Development Programme since 2021, he has the support and mentorship of one of the most iconic teams in motorsport.

Achievements

Ugochukwu’s achievements are complemented by his diverse background and charismatic personality.

As the son of two creative and accomplished parents, he brings a unique flair to the racing world, inspiring fans from all walks of life.