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McLaren retains Fornaroli as F1 reserve and hands him WEC programme for 2027

McLaren announced that Leonardo Fornaroli will return as its Formula 1 reserve driver for the 2027 season, while also making his debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship driving the brand's new Hypercar.
Fornaroli won the FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles back-to-back in 2024 and 2025, then spent this year as a reserve driver observing Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. He admitted, "Yes, I've really missed racing."
McLaren Hypercar team boss James Barclay praised the Italian's "speed, consistency and maturity," noting the lineup blends experienced sports car drivers with young talent as Fornaroli tested the new machine yesterday.
The 2027 programme includes a maiden appearance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which Fornaroli described as "a huge honour" to represent McLaren in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
This dual role allows Fornaroli to continue his F1 development while gaining experience in top-level endurance racing, contributing to the Woking-based manufacturer's return alongside teammates Alex Lynn and Mikkel Jensen.

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