Dries, a 13-year-old rising star from Heusden-Zolder, Belgium, has already built an impressive karting career. His accomplishments include winning the 2023 World Junior Karting Championship and securing a second-place finish in the 2024 Super Masters Series, where he achieved two podiums and a victory in just four races.

In the 2024 FIA Karting European Championship's OK-Junior category, Dries demonstrated his exceptional talent by winning at both Valencia and Slovakia Ring, and earning a second-place finish at Val d'Argenton in France. He is currently leading the 2024 FIA Karting European Championship and RGMMC Champions of The Future Series.

The McLaren Driver Development Programme, overseen by F1 Business Operations Director Stephanie Carlin, aims to nurture young talent. Dries will benefit from this programme by receiving comprehensive support as he progresses from karting to becoming a professional racing driver.

Dries Van Langendonck, Driver, McLaren Driver Development, said: “It feels amazing to join the McLaren Driver Development Programme. I have been working hard on track to maximise my performances this year and McLaren will now provide great support to take me to the next level. It’s an honour to be part of the Papaya family and I’m focused on continuing my development under the guidance of Stephanie and the McLaren Driver Development team.”

Infinity Sports Management is excited to see Dries take this significant step in his career and looks forward to his continued success on the track.