Formula One team McLaren have announced they've signed a "long-term" contract with teenage karting star Ugo Ugochukwu.

The 13-year-old American was recently crowned FIA European champion and has landed several youth driving titles in both Europe and the USA.

McLaren say the deal gives them the chance to support his development and an option to secure his services in the future.

“I’m honoured to be signed by such an iconic team as McLaren Racing so early in my career," Ugochukwu said after signing the contract.

"To have the support of McLaren is fantastic and what any young driver dreams of. I’m focused right now on developing as a driver and racer, so having McLaren by my side can only help me on and off the track.”

McLaren Racing is pleased to announce a long-term agreement with Ugo Ugochukwu, the promising young driver from the USA. 🤝

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) March 22, 2021

McLaren's team principal, Andreas Seidl, believes Ugochukwu has all the attributes to be a successful Formula One driver in the future.

“Ugo is a promising young talent with strong development prospects. While he is still early in his career, it is clear he has the ingredients to be successful in the sport.

"This signing reflects our refocused approach to identifying and supporting new talent, away from a formal young driver programme to a more tailored basis.”