McLaren Racing has promoted Gregoire Saucy to a full-time race seat in its MCL-HY Hypercar for the team’s debut in the World Endurance Championship in 2027. The announcement secures a factory drive for the young Swiss competitor as the British manufacturer prepares to enter the premier sportscar category.
From Development to Factory Race Seat
Saucy started his sportscar career piloting the Oreca LMP2 for United Autosports in both the European Le Mans Series and the Le Mans 24 Hours. He joined the Woking-based outfit’s driver roster a couple of years ago, initially gaining valuable experience behind the wheel of the 720S in LMGT3 before shifting focus to the development of the Dallara-chassis LMDh.
According to Motorsport.com, Saucy has driven the British brand’s hybrid prototype since its maiden test outing at Varano de’ Melegari. During the testing schedule, he worked alongside Mikkel Jensen and gradually partnered with other works drivers joining the initiative, including Laurens Vanthoor, Leonardo Fornaroli, and Alex Lynn. The final driver expected to complete the roster is Malthe Jakobsen, who departs Peugeot following the Monza season finale.
Reflecting on his promotion, Saucy expressed his excitement about securing the drive. “I am over the moon to be given this opportunity,” said Saucy, as reported by Motorsport.com. “When I joined the McLaren Hypercar Team for its development season, I hoped it might lead to a full-time race seat, but I knew there was a great deal of experienced talent in the driver market.”
Saucy added that he maintained his focus, put in hard work, and adapted rapidly to the MCL-HY. He praised the team’s high standards, supportive personnel, and positive atmosphere while expressing gratitude to Zak Brown and James Barclay for their trust and support through the development programme.
Building a Pathway for Young Talent
McLaren Hypercar team principal James Barclay explained that the driver’s elevation exemplifies the core purpose of the manufacturer’s initiative. Barclay stated that the program aims to spot exceptional talent, nurture their growth, and establish a clear path to a works race seat.
Barclay noted that Saucy consistently impressed the team throughout the MCL-HY testing schedule with his speed, methodical teamwork, and steady progress through rigorous test sessions. He emphasized that the driver fully earned the chance to advance his professional career with the organization.
Alongside teammates Ben Hanley and Griffin Peebles, Saucy secured the 2026 European Le Mans Series title while racing for United Autosports. The Anglo-American squad, which is co-owned by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, will act as the factory partner for the manufacturer during its upcoming entry into the Hypercar class.
