Overview
- McLaren confirmed the two-driver reserve setup on Jan. 15–16 as it finalizes roles behind Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri for 2026.
- Fornaroli, signed after winning the 2025 Formula 2 title, is designated as the primary standby at the majority of Grands Prix.
- Pato O’Ward continues as Arrow McLaren’s full-time IndyCar driver while supporting F1 reserve duties when calendar windows permit.
- The team highlighted typical reserve responsibilities, including substitution readiness, simulator work, private testing and occasional practice sessions.
- McLaren also published its 2026 development roster, naming Christian Costoya, Matteo De Palo, Ella Hakkinen, Ella Lloyd, Ella Stevens, Dries Van Langendonck and Richard Verschoor.