McLaren Driver Development Programme welcomes Grégoire Saucy for 2026. McLaren has added Swiss racer Grégoire Saucy to its Driver Development Programme.

Swiss racer joins Woking team’s development programme ahead of 2026 season

Not just Mercedes

Just two days ago, Mercedes officially welcomed Teo Pourchaire into its own driver development programme. McLaren quickly followed suit, announcing a new development driver right before the start of the 2026 F1 season. The Woking-based team has brought in 26-year-old Swiss racer Grégoire Saucy, who will join a talented roster that includes Christian Costoya, Ella Häkkinen, Ella Lloyd, Pato O’Ward, Ella Stevens, Dries Van Langendonck, Richard Verschoor, and two Italians, Matteo De Palo and Leonardo Fornaroli, the reigning Formula 2 champion.

Career and commitments

After winning the 2021 Formula Regional European Championship, Saucy competed for two seasons in Formula 3 before moving to the WEC with United Autosports in the LMGT3 class, driving the McLaren 720S. In his new role, Saucy will compete in the 2026 European Le Mans Series LMP2 and take part in selected IMSA races with United Autosports, while also carrying out several test sessions with McLaren.

“I’m really excited to join the McLaren Driver Development Programme,” Saucy said. “The programme provides invaluable support and a wide range of opportunities as I continue to develop in all aspects of my racing career. It’s a fantastic environment, and I can’t wait to work with the incredible McLaren team. Thanks to Zak Brown and Alessandro (Pier Guidi) for this opportunity.”

Saucy was welcomed by Alessandro Alunni Bravi, McLaren’s Chief Business Affairs Officer: “McLaren Racing is delighted to welcome Grégoire Saucy to the McLaren Driver Development Programme. Grégoire has impressed across multiple racing categories, providing an excellent foundation for his development within our pathways. We look forward to seeing Grégoire progress this year in races and test sessions across endurance categories.”