McLaren Signs F2 Champion Leonardo Fornaroli as Test Driver

McLaren has confirmed that 2025 Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli will step into its driver development structure for the 2026 season, taking on a test and development role that supports the team’s long-term Formula 1 plans. The move follows his title win in Qatar, where he wrapped up the F2 championship by finishing second in the Feature Race with a round still left. Fornaroli will also be listed as a reserve driver behind Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, giving McLaren extra coverage across race and simulator work.

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Fornaroli joins McLaren after winning back-to-back championships in Formula 3 and Formula 2, following a path similar to Oscar Piastri and Gabriel Bortoleto. His time with Invicta Racing delivered steady points, podiums and race wins that strengthened his place in the single-seater field. His addition to McLaren ends a two-year stretch of competing without any formal team backing despite consistent performances.

The 20-year-old spent several seasons in the junior ranks before his form improved across 2024 and 2025. He won the Formula 3 title at Monza after a final-lap move and a post-race disqualification for rival Gabriele Mini, then carried that momentum into his rookie Formula 2 campaign, where he secured the championship early. His rise drew attention across the paddock.

McLaren’s development group for next year includes Fornaroli, Formula 2 driver Richard Verschoor and European karting winner Christian Costoya. Verschoor, currently tied for second in the F2 standings, brings several seasons of experience after an earlier spell in the Red Bull setup. Costoya, aged 15, joins from karting and is set to start his single-seater career in Formula 4 within the McLaren pathway.

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Fornaroli’s 2026 duties will include simulator sessions, race preparation and possible free practice outings, joining a roster that also includes Pato O’Ward, Matteo De Palo, Ella Lloyd, Ella Stevens, Ella Hakkinen, Van Langendonck and Costoya.