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McLaren Signs FRECA Runner-Up Matteo De Palo, Overhauls Junior Lineup

The move reinforces McLaren’s multi-series pathway designed to graduate drivers into top-level programmes, including a planned WEC entry.

Overview

  • McLaren added 18-year-old Matteo De Palo to its Driver Development Programme following his runner-up finish in the 2025 Formula Regional European Championship.
  • De Palo will race in papaya at the 2025 Macau Grand Prix under McLaren’s backing.
  • He is set to contest the 2026 FIA Formula 3 season with Trident with support from McLaren.
  • McLaren confirmed Ugo Ugochukwu, Martinius Stenshorne and Brando Badoer will depart the academy at year’s end, with Alex Dunne having left earlier.
  • The team reiterated that its development pathway targets progression into Formula 1, IndyCar and a World Endurance Championship programme planned from 2027.