Reigning F2 champion shines in breakthrough McLaren Formula 1 test

The Italian driver completed an impressive 110 laps around the Montmeló circuit at the wheel of the MCL60, the car raced by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri during the 2023 season.

McLaren explained that the test "is part of Leonardo’s development within the framework of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, ensuring he is prepared for his role as McLaren Mastercard’s Reserve Driver."

The team also confirmed that "Leonardo will continue to test with the TPC team throughout the year, alongside simulator work and support trackside."

Fornaroli described his first experience driving a Formula 1 car as an incredible feeling, highlighting how much he learned over the two days across various aspects of driving. He noted that, despite the differences between these cars and the current generation, time on track remains crucial for his role as reserve driver, also helping him better correlate real driving with simulator work.

He finally thanked McLaren for the opportunity and said he is eager to get back behind the wheel, before heading to Japan to support the team over the race weekend: “Thank you to everyone at McLaren for this opportunity, I am excited to get back in the car and to continue developing as a driver. Now, I am heading to Japan to support the team across the race weekend.”