Mackenzie Thompson has inked a new deal with FOX eSports. The former Vegasport driver will be a Fox from Season 5 onwards.
AFO TV was fortunate to get a word from Mackenzie and team boss James Knox ahead of the news. "Signing Mackenzie is a statement of intent from FOX eSports," Knox explained. "We know what they are capable of. As they're coming off a break from sim racing, we believe we can harness the absolute maximum out of Mackenzie. The passion is there, and that goes a long way for us."
Addressing Thompson’s turbulent exit from Vegasport at the end of Season 4, Knox expressed full confidence in the team's ability to rebuild the driver's momentum: "Sure, the way they parted with Vega was rough, but we believe we can give Mackenzie the environment to perform."
Knox also provided updates on the rest of the FOX roster. While confirming ongoing talks with Kowandoh Badu regarding a contract extension for Season 5, he reflected on Anthony Smith and his drop from the main seat to a reserve role:
"To say it didn't work out with Smith could be seen as harsh. In testing, Smith showed the potential to perform at the level of consistent points. Unfortunately, it was too early, and luck hasn't been on his side. We are actively helping him look for other options for Season 5, and he’ll always have a home at FOX."
For Thompson, the move to FOX represents a clean slate after a difficult period away from the grid. "I’ve tried my best to create myself anew," Thompson said. "I just do my best to control [the distractions] now and try my absolute hardest to focus on what I'm doing. Just be right there in the moment is all I have to do. I'm just trying to reduce everything to zero. I’m just here to race, and that’s it."
