McLaren Confirms Fornaroli as 2026 Reserve Driver

McLaren has solidified its support structure for the 2026 season by confirming reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli as an official reserve driver. Fornaroli will join IndyCar star Pato O'Ward at the Woking-based outfit, providing crucial backup as the team defends its constructors' championship under the new power unit regulations.

Why it matters:

With the massive regulatory overhaul in 2026, simulator work and testing feedback will be more vital than ever. Having a dedicated pool of talented drivers like Fornaroli and O'Ward ensures McLaren can maximize track time and data acquisition without distracting from their title defense with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.

The details:

• Fornaroli's Role: The 2024 F2 champion steps up from the development program to a full reserve role. He will undertake an intensive simulator program to aid the team's adaptation to the new rules.
• O'Ward's Continuity: The Mexican driver retains his reserve role while continuing his IndyCar commitments, maintaining his link to the F1 team.
• Expanded Roster: McLaren announced a nine-driver development squad. Notable inclusions include Richard Verschoor, who will balance European Le Mans Series LMP2 duties with testing for McLaren's 2027 WEC debut, and Ella Häkkinen, daughter of Mika, who will focus on F4 testing.
• Official Word: Alessandro Alunni Bravi emphasized the strength of the talent pipeline, noting the group's progression toward F1, IndyCar, and endurance racing.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to the track as the new era begins. Fornaroli and the development team will be busy in the simulator while the race team prepares to defend its titles. The expanded program also lays the groundwork for McLaren's ambitious entry into the World Endurance Championship in 2027.