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.