Karting champion Nyck de Vries gets a boost from GSK-McLaren partnership
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has added a new element to its existing strategic partnership with the McLaren Group, announcing support for world karting champion Nyck de Vries, a member of the McLaren Young Driver Programme.
As part of the physical conditioning training that is the backbone of the McLaren Young Driver Programme, Nyck will receive hydration expertise and sporting performance support from Lucozade to allow him to deliver at the highest level in motor racing. Lucozade’s team of scientists have already collaborated closely with the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team to create two bespoke Lucozade formulations for Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton and the team supporting them.
“Getting from karting to Formula 1 is an incredibly tough journey – and one that you have to fight for every single step of the way,” said Jenson. “My years in karting gave me the solid foundation I needed to move into single-seaters and Formula 1. But that is never straightforward for anyone – that’s why I think the McLaren Young Driver Programme is such a good idea.
“One of the programme’s aims is to create overall fitness by developing and conditioning your body. As he starts to take part in longer races, driving faster cars, Nyck will learn to recognise that good hydration can have a significant impact on his results. And having Lucozade onboard will give him all the benefit of their massive experience in that area."
Lucozade Hydration Formulation and Lucozade Race Formulation were introduced at the Malaysian Grand Prix this year. Their precise and scientifically determined mix of essential hydration salts, carbohydrates and proteins support optimal physical performance, while the Lucozade Race Formulation also answers specific needs relating to weight management, speed of absorption, and driver alertness.
“Lucozade plays an integral role in the performance of the F1 drivers during the race,” said Peter Harding, General Manager GSK Consumer Healthcare. “Hydration is critical to their success and overall performance. We’re confident that our knowledge and expertise in this area as well as the work that we’re doing with the human high performance team at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes will deliver great benefits for Nyck and his sporting performance.”