Leonardo Fornaroli looks ahead to F1 debut as McLaren third driver. Fresh F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli is ready to make his F1 debut in 2026 with McLaren.

F1 | Fornaroli ready to debut with McLaren in 2026: his words ahead of the new season

Leonardo Fornaroli, the fresh Formula 2 champion, is now preparing to take the big step into Formula 1 in 2026 with McLaren. Less than a month ago, Leonardo Fornaroli secured his first F2 championship driving for Invicta Racing. A remarkable achievement for the young Italian, in his debut season in the feeder category, who managed to claim the title after an outstanding year. Following this success, Fornaroli signed his first Formula 1 contract for the 2026 season, joining the team that won both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships: McLaren. This is a major milestone for Leonardo Fornaroli, who is now eager to officially make his F1 debut as the team’s third driver.

Comments on his victorious F2 season

During the Sky Sport F1 Italy Golden Helmet Awards, Fornaroli reflected on his winning F2 season: “I’m only now realizing what has happened. I’m very proud.” The young Italian added: “It wasn’t easy to perform well in my first year in Formula 2; it’s a very challenging category. There are so many variables to manage.” He expressed satisfaction with how the season was handled, despite some errors along the way: “It’s almost impossible to have a perfect season, but we always managed to score points. Securing the championship one race early makes me very proud.”

F1 debut with McLaren

Fornaroli then discussed his signing with McLaren for the 2026 Formula 1 season: “I’m very happy to become part of the 2024 and 2025 world champion team. The team is giving me a lot of trust.” Regarding his role as the third driver next year, he explained: “We will announce our 2026 program soon. It will definitely include work in Formula 1, including track sessions. The goal is to develop as a driver, both on and off the track.” The Italian is determined to be ready for a potential future F1 seat while contributing to the team’s progress. “I want to thank everyone who believes in me. I can’t wait to get started.”

With extensive simulator work, potential free practice runs, and reserve driver responsibilities on the horizon, Leonardo Fornaroli’s integration into the Woking operation promises exciting developments. Italian F1 fans will watch closely as another homegrown talent joins the grid’s top team, ready to make his mark when the new regulations shake up the order next year.