Reigning F2 champion Fornaroli completes first F1 test with McLaren

McLaren reserve driver and reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli has successfully completed his first test in a Formula 1 car, driving over 110 laps in the team's 2023 MCL60 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The outing marks a significant step in his development as he prepares for his official reserve driver duties with the team.

Why it matters:

For a young driver, real-world mileage in a current-generation F1 car is invaluable, bridging the gap between simulator work and the physical demands of the cockpit. This test not only accelerates Fornaroli's acclimatization but also enhances the quality of his support for race drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri through better simulator correlation, strengthening McLaren's overall driver development pipeline.

The details:

• The test was conducted as part of McLaren's Driver Development Programme, specifically designed to prepare Fornaroli for his role as the team's official reserve driver.
• Fornaroli took the wheel of the MCL60, the car used by Norris and Piastri during the 2023 F1 season, accumulating crucial experience over two days in Barcelona.
• McLaren confirmed that Fornaroli will continue with similar Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) sessions throughout the year, alongside ongoing simulator work and trackside support at race events.
• The Italian driver described the experience as an "amazing feeling," emphasizing the immense learning value across various aspects of driving a Formula 1 car.
  • He highlighted the importance of real-track time for his reserve role, noting it directly helps correlate physical driving sensations with his work in the team's simulator.

What's next:

Fornaroli's immediate focus shifts to supporting the McLaren race team on-site at the Japanese Grand Prix. The structured test program will continue throughout the season, providing him with further opportunities to develop behind the wheel and solidify his position as a key part of McLaren's future talent strategy.