McLaren keeps Fornaroli as F1 reserve, adds 2027 WEC drive

Two FP1 starts plus TPC and simulator work in 2026

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

Photo: @autosport

What happened: Fornaroli stays on as reserve and third driver for 2027 while taking a full-time seat in the MCL-HY Hypercar. His 2026 development included TPC running, extensive simulator work and two FP1 appearances.

Why it matters: Continuity keeps the reigning F2 champion embedded in F1 operations while returning him to full-time competition. The seat also places him in the development loop for McLaren's debut season at the top level of endurance racing.

What to watch: Watch for Hypercar test mileage and which 2027 FP1 weekends he is assigned.

Sources

Motorsport F1 2026-10-19T11:05:50.703870+00:00

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F1BreakingMcLarenLeonardo Fornaroli

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