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F1·PREVIEW·June 9, 2026 11:56 AM ET

Fornaroli set for McLaren FP1 debut at Barcelona

Reigning F2 champion gets his first F1 practice run.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 91 min read
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Will be a lot of FP1 rookie outings in Barcelona, but one of the first timers will be Leonardo Fornaroli for McLaren - h

What happened: Leonardo Fornaroli will be among several rookies handed first practice running at the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, taking the wheel for McLaren in FP1. The 2025 FIA Formula 2 champion is making one of his first appearances in a current Formula 1 car. He is reported to have impressed McLaren during private testing of previous cars (TPC) outings to date.

Why it matters: FIA rules require each team to give young drivers FP1 track time during the season, and these sessions are a key proving ground for the next generation. A strong run would strengthen Fornaroli's standing within McLaren's driver pipeline as the team weighs its future options.

By the numbers: Fornaroli enters the weekend as the reigning 2025 FIA Formula 2 champion. FP1 rookie outings are mandated for every team across the season, so several first-timers are expected across the grid in Barcelona.

What to watch: Watch how Fornaroli's FP1 pace compares to the regular McLaren benchmark, and which other rookies surface elsewhere on the grid this weekend.

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