McLaren gives Leonardo Fornaroli two more F1 practice outings

McLaren have confirmed that Leonardo Fornaroli will get two more opportunities to drive the MCL40 during Formula 1 race weekends in 2026. The Italian reserve driver will replace Lando Norris in the first practice session at the Mexico City Grand Prix before taking Oscar Piastri’s place for the opening session in São Paulo a week later.

The two appearances will allow McLaren to complete its mandatory programme for giving young drivers practice opportunities during the season. Fornaroli has already taken part in first practice sessions in Spain and Hungary, gaining valuable experience of working with the team and adapting to Formula 1 machinery.

The 21-year-old has also continued his preparations through testing at Circuit Paul Ricard in France. There, he completed 58 laps and covered 339 kilometres in the MCL39, McLaren’s championship-winning car from 2025. The upcoming sessions will present different challenges, particularly the high altitude in Mexico City and the technical demands of the Interlagos circuit in Brazil.

Fornaroli’s growing responsibilities come after McLaren confirmed that he will race for its new Hypercar team in the World Endurance Championship in 2027, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. He will retain his Formula 1 reserve role while taking on the endurance-racing programme, giving him the chance to continue developing within the McLaren organisation while returning to competitive racing.