After attending the Canadian Grand Prix weekend as McLaren’s Reserve Driver, Leonardo Fornaroli returned to the track almost immediately to continue his development within the Woking-based team’s Driver Development Programme.
The Italian driver completed a two-day testing programme at the Circuit of the Americas, driving the 2023 McLaren MCL60 as part of the team’s TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) programme.
For Fornaroli, it was his third experience behind the wheel of a modern Formula 1 car, following previous test outings at Barcelona and Silverstone. At the Texas circuit, the reigning FIA Formula 2 champion completed 77 laps, covering a total distance of 425 kilometres while experiencing the Circuit of the Americas for the first time.
McLaren prepared an extensive and varied programme for the young Italian. Across the two days, the Piacenza-born driver alternated between long-run race simulations, shorter performance runs, practice starts from the grid and formation procedures, continuing to build valuable experience with a Formula 1 car.
The weather conditions also allowed the team to work through different scenarios. The opening day was marked by high temperatures, significant humidity and light rainfall, while the second day took place in cooler conditions.
At the conclusion of the test, Leonardo Fornaroli expressed his satisfaction with the work completed.
“It’s always fantastic to drive a Formula 1 car. I’m grateful to McLaren for giving me another opportunity to get behind the wheel of the MCL60,” he said.
Leonardo Fornaroli also highlighted the progress he has made both from a technical perspective and in terms of his integration within the team.
“I feel increasingly comfortable with both the car and the team. The programme was more demanding compared to the previous test at Silverstone. We completed several start procedures, which allowed me to gain an even better understanding of what it means to drive a Formula 1 car during a session. Everyone within the Driver Development Programme continues to support and motivate me as I progress on my development journey,” he explained.
The Italian driver also gave a positive assessment of the Austin circuit, which he was experiencing for the first time in his career.
“It was my first time at COTA and I really enjoyed it. I’m already looking forward to my next opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car. Until then, I will continue supporting the team in the simulator as we prepare for the Monaco Grand Prix,” he added.
The Texas test represents another important step in the preparation programme of the young Italian driver, who serves as McLaren Reserve Driver in 2026 and continues to gain valuable Formula 1 experience ahead of potential opportunities in the future.
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