Overview
- Reigning F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli steps up as primary reserve with an intensive testing and simulator schedule to support Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri under the new 2026 regulations.
- Pato O’Ward retains his reserve role alongside his Arrow McLaren IndyCar campaign after multiple FP1 appearances and testing outings in recent seasons.
- Fornaroli is expected to gain young-driver FP1 opportunities during 2026, according to coverage outlining McLaren’s development plans.
- McLaren names a nine-strong development group including Christian Costoya, Matteo De Palo, Ella Häkkinen, Ella Lloyd, Ella Stevens, Dries Van Langendonck and Richard Verschoor.
- Verschoor will test for McLaren and race LMP2 in ELMS with Duqueine as part of preparations for the team’s targeted World Endurance Championship entry in 2027, while McLaren’s 2026 F1 car launch is set for 9 February in Bahrain before the 8 March season opener in Australia.