Atiku Vows To Support 17–Year–Old Nigerian–American, Ugo Ugochukwu

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has extended his warm congratulations to 17-year-old Nigerian-American Ugo Ugochukwu on his remarkable victory in the 2024 FIA World Cup.

Ugochukwu’s impressive win took place at the 71st Macau Grand Prix on Sunday, November 17, 2024, where he emerged as the champion, claiming the coveted crown.

Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, expressed his pride in Ugochukwu’s achievement, praising the young Nigerian-American’s exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

Atiku also assured Ugochukwu of his support as he prepares for his next competition in 2025.

Atiku said: “The historic victory of Ugo Ugochuckwu, whose Nigerian root is well-grounded at the 2024 FIA FR World Cup, makes me proud as a Nigerian.

“To have been dubbed the next Lewis Hamilton, the well-decorated F1 racer, confirms that the 17-year-old’s victory at the 71st Macau Grand Prix was not a fluke.

“As Ugo is set to compete in the FIA Formula 3 — the third-tier world racing championship — in 2025, let him be assured that he has a supporter in me.

“Once again, congratulations, Ugo, and may you soar like an eagle.”

Ugochukwu, a talented young man, was born in New York to a Nigerian fashion model mother, Oluchi, and an Italian fashion designer father, Luca Orlandi.

Despite his multicultural background, Ugochukwu proudly represents the United States in car racing.

Ugochukwu recently made headlines with his impressive win, leading the race from start to finish for R-ace GP. He outpaced Olivier Goethe of MP Motorsport and Noel León of KCMG IXO by Pinnacle Motorsport, showcasing his exceptional driving skills.

The victory made him become the first American driver to win the prestigious event in over 40 years.

When asked about his victory, Ugochukwu attributed his success to his resilience and confidence. These qualities enabled him to stay focused and composed under pressure, ultimately leading him to emerge triumphant on the circuit.

“I can’t describe the feeling; of course, I’m super happy. It was quite a tricky race. I was pushing the whole way, but I was confident in the pace – ever since Q2, we’ve been really quick, of course, we won the Quali race as well, but there was still one more thing to do, which was win the main race, and we managed to do it,” the 17-year-old stated.

“I can’t thank the R-ace GP team enough. We had a great weekend, and yeah, I’m super happy to finally get the job done.”

Ugochukwu was discovered at an early age as a car racing wunderkind. He started Kart racing, a variant of motorsport, in 2013.

Ugochukwu has been dubbed as the next Lewis Hamilton, the decorated British racer, and was snapped up by McLaren for multi-year contract in 2021

Source:- Pmnewsnigeria