Italian rookie poised for McLaren F1 debut in Japanese GP

Fornaroli, who also won the F3 title in 2024, signed with McLaren as a reserve driver at the end of last season. However, during the Australian Grand Prix, it was Nyck de Vries who fulfilled the role of third driver for the British team. It was previously understood that Fornaroli would only step into his duties after completing a Test of a Previous Car (TPC).

However, earlier this week in Barcelona, Fornaroli finally got behind the wheel of a McLaren Formula 1 car. Driving the team’s 2023 challenger, the 21-year-old completed 110 laps—covering more than 500 kilometres—marking his first experience in F1 machinery.

Afterward, Fornaroli said: "It’s an amazing feeling to drive an F1 car around the circuit. The past two days have been incredible, and I’ve learned a huge amount about many aspects of driving in F1."

"Although these cars are quite different from the current generation, spending time behind the wheel is still essential for my role as a reserve driver. It also helps me connect the physical feeling of driving to my work in the simulator, where I support the team," said the Italian.

Fornaroli is now travelling to Japan to join McLaren for the Suzuka weekend. GPblog understands he is expected to play an active role trackside and could step in to race if required—potentially marking his Formula 1 debut.

Suzuka presents one of the most technically demanding circuits on the Formula 1 calendar, with high-speed corners such as the Esses and 130R requiring precision and confidence. Fornaroli’s presence at such a challenging venue highlights the level of trust McLaren is placing in the young driver.

McLaren are hoping the Japanese GP offers the team a chance to improve on their dreadful start to the season.