McLaren announces Tanner Foust as part of Extreme E line-up

McLaren has announced Tanner Foust as one half of its Extreme E driver line-up ahead of its debut season in 2022.

Foust has plenty of racing experience under his belt having competed in hill climb, rally, sports car, open-wheel and rallycross events throughout his career.

The American has race competitively since 2005, winning four X Games gold medals across Rally and Super Rally events, three U.S. rallycross championships (2010, 2011, 2012) and two Formula Drift championships (2007, 2008) in the process.

He also became the first American driver to win a round of the European Rallycross Championship, finishing second and third in the standings in 2011 and 2012 respectively.

“We are thrilled that Tanner has joined the McLaren Racing family of drivers,” McLaren CEO Zak Brown said of the announcement.

“He is a top-class off-road competitor with a wealth of experience and a winning record. Alongside his driving prowess he’s a fantastic personality, who will help us connect with new fans around the world and bring the purpose and important messages of Extreme E to the fore.

“We’re looking forward to announcing Tanner’s team-mate and our first female McLaren driver, to complete our exciting line-up.”

Foust is also known for his unique driving credentials aside from an already impressive rally resume. He has worked as a host for Top Gear USA and featured as a stunt driver in multiple Hollywood films including The Bourne Ultimatum and The Fast and Furious.

He will now combine both aspects of his career with McLaren as the team breaks new ground in Extreme E from 2022.

“To be able to race for McLaren is every driver’s dream and the opportunity to compete for the team in this innovative and imaginative racing series makes it even more special,” Foust said.

“The concept is unique and the challenge compelling. It will enable me to draw on all my experience and skills, while being part of a positive cause addressing key issues for our planet and society.”

Extreme E mandates that each team field both a male and female driver but McLaren is yet to confirm the identity of his team-mate. The team added that it would be revealing who will complete its driver line-up at a later date.