McLaren confirms Leonardo Fornaroli for F1 reserve and 2027 WEC program

McLaren Racing has announced that Leonardo Fornaroli will continue as a reserve and third driver for the Formula 1 team in 2027. In addition to his F1 responsibilities, the Italian driver will join the McLaren Hypercar Team to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).

Fornaroli, a former Formula 3 and Formula 2 champion, is set to drive the McLaren MCL-HY Hypercar starting in 2027. He will join a lineup that includes Mikkel Jensen, Alex Lynn, and Laurens Vanthoor. This dual role allows Fornaroli to maintain his connection to the F1 paddock while returning to high-level endurance racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The decision follows Fornaroli’s involvement with McLaren throughout 2026, where he participated in testing sessions, free practice sessions, and simulator work as part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme.