28-year-old British racing driver James Kell says he is “proud” to join McLaren’s GT3 Junior Driver Programme ahead of the 2026 season.

The FIA Silver-categorised driver has been confirmed as the latest addition to the prestigious British manufacturer’s junior roster, marking the next step in his progression through international GT racing.

Speaking to GT REPORT, Kell said: 

“I’m very proud to be associated with such a historic and successful manufacturer.” 

“I have been a McLaren fan since I was very young, I even applied for work experience there in my early teens but unfortunately didn’t get the opportunity back then, so walking in as a Junior driver to MTC was rather special.”

Kell has a long history of racing McLarens, as he has raced in their machinery across several different championships, including his time in British GT and most recently in the International GT Open championship, GT World Challenge and GT Cup championship last season when he competed alongside his father, Darren Kell.

Reflecting on how the opportunity came together, he added:

 “With a successful season last year with CSA Racing in GT World Challenge Europe, with some very strong performances and podiums, it cemented my place on the GT3 Junior lineup. Then getting the phone call in December (2025) that they’d like to have me on the programme, I was quick to say yes.”

McLaren and Kell will now work closely over the coming seasons as part of the manufacturer’s driver development pathway, supporting his growth at the highest level of GT3 competition.

Kell said: “I think having manufacturer backing from McLaren will allow me to work and race with some of the best. Naturally, that gives you the opportunity to learn and absorb as much information as possible, allowing me to add new concepts or techniques to my tool kit as a driver.”

“It will be full focus on 2026 and executing the season to the best of my abilities. I’m sure many other competitors are in the same boat, as this time of year is about getting ready for the season ahead. Racing is always on my mind and once the season starts the rounds come thick and fast.”

While Kell is yet to confirm his full racing programme for 2026, he hinted that plans are already in place and an announcement is expected in due course, as he prepares for his first full season as a McLaren junior. 

He said, “Well the aim as always is to win as much as possible and have consistently strong results as that usually leads to championship successes. I’ve always looked at championships on a race by race basis then see where we stand come the final round of the season.”

“At this stage I can’t comment on my 2026 plans but I’m sure they will be announced in due course. I’m excited to get the season underway, testing can’t come fast enough!”