Marcus Jensen earned his golden ticket to the McLaren Shadow Project finals in January by winning the combined qualifying series on iRacing.com.

Using his experience competing in the Grand Prix World Championship Series, the 17-year-old fought long and hard across 10 weeks of racing in both the MP4-30 and MP4-12C GT3.

The young racer from Denmark will join six other finalists at the McLaren Technology Centre to win a spot in our 2019 esports team, along with a chance to join our esports development programme - allowing the winner to hone their skills and work with our Formula 1 team.

Let’s hear from Marcus ahead of the final in just over two weeks’ time.

What’s your favourite type of car to race online?

F1 cars are by far my favourite type of cars to race, as it’s the most enjoyable for me to drive. The pure speed and grip the cars have is extreme and creates a big challenge for the driver.

What’s your favourite racing game?

My favourite racing game is iRacing, because I believe it’s the best competitive platform. The competition in the top series is immense, which makes it very rewarding when you have good results. 

Favourite non-racing game?

I enjoy games such as Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA 5, I like the open world nature of the games and the endless possibilities there are.

Favourite (real-life) racing driver?

Daniel Ricciardo, he’s a great driver and personality in F1.

Favourite (real-life) race track?

That would have to be Spa-Francorchamps. The track is extremely flowing, and suits almost every type of car. 

What does McLaren mean to you?

McLaren means motorsport history and success - notably in Formula 1, but it also means great and unique road cars.

What gave you the edge to make it through?

I think my consistency throughout the series helped, which was vital in the 10-week competition.

Any tips for healthy, fun gaming?

Enjoy it, and balance it with everything else in your life.

What does gaming mean to you?

It means having a good time, where you can just focus on the game you’re playing.

When you’re not working/gaming, what are you doing?

I’m a huge F1 fan, so I always enjoy watching the races. I also play a bit of badminton for fun.  

How are you going to prepare for the McLaren Shadow grand finals?

By practicing and testing, to ensure that I can perform at the best of my ability.

Who do you see as your biggest competiton?

Everyone that has reached the finals will be a tough competitor, they’ve all got immense talent in the respective racing games that they’ve qualified through.

The world's biggest esports racing competition will feature four days of intense tests and race offs, with two of the days streamed via our YouTube channel on Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 January 2019.