McLaren CEO Zak Brown has expressed strong confidence in reserve driver Leonardo Fornaroli, describing him as "definitely worthy of being in Formula 1®." This endorsement follows Fornaroli’s recent participation in a Free Practice 1 session at the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix and his involvement in testing activities earlier in the year.
Fornaroli, who clinched the 2025 Formula 2 championship, joined McLaren’s Driver Development Programme in December 2025. In 2026, he shares reserve driver duties with fellow McLaren reserve Pato O’Ward. His FP1 debut saw him complete 22 laps and record the fifth fastest time in that session, a performance that caught the attention of the McLaren leadership.
Earlier in 2026, Fornaroli also took part in the Testing of Previous Cars programme at Jerez, where he drove the 2025 Haas VF-25. This opportunity provided additional experience in Formula 1® machinery and further showcased his potential within the sport.
Zak Brown highlighted Fornaroli’s talent while also confirming McLaren’s satisfaction with their current race drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, both secured on multi-year contracts. Brown dismissed speculation about Max Verstappen potentially joining McLaren, emphasizing the team’s commitment to its existing lineup.
While Brown expressed hope that Fornaroli will secure a full-time race seat soon, no specific team or seat has been confirmed for the young Italian driver. His progress through McLaren’s development programme and his performances in FP1 and testing underline his readiness to compete at the highest level.
Fornaroli’s trajectory reflects McLaren’s ongoing investment in nurturing emerging talent within the Formula 1® ecosystem. His achievements in Formula 2 and subsequent exposure to Formula 1® machinery position him as a promising figure to watch as the 2026 season unfolds.
As the season continues, Fornaroli’s development and potential opportunities will be closely observed, with McLaren’s backing providing a solid foundation for his advancement in the sport.
