McLaren confirmed its reserve driver lineup and full driver development roster for the 2026 Formula 1 season on January 15. The announcement comes after a highly successful 2025 campaign for the team.
Last season, McLaren won the Constructors’ Championship, while Lando Norris secured his first Drivers’ Championship. With major technical regulation changes arriving in 2026, the team said strengthening its talent pipeline is a key priority.
Leonardo Fornaroli has been named McLaren’s primary reserve driver for most of the 2026 season. The 21‑year‑old Italian driver is the reigning Formula 2 champion, following his F3 title win in 2024. He will take part in extensive simulator work and testing duties.
Pato O’Ward will continue his role as a reserve driver alongside his full‑time IndyCar program with Arrow McLaren. The 26‑year‑old Mexican driver will be available for Formula 1 duties when his IndyCar schedule allows.
McLaren also confirmed an expanded nine‑driver development program led by Chief Business Affairs Officer Alessandro Alunni Bravi. The lineup is designed to support McLaren’s future plans across Formula 1, IndyCar, and endurance racing.
Several drivers will focus on junior single‑seater series in 2026. This includes multiple F1 Academy entries, Formula 4 developments, and regional categories aimed at preparing talent for higher levels of racing.
Richard Verschoor will compete in the European Le Mans Series in an LMP2 car. McLaren sees this move as preparation for its planned return to top‑level endurance racing, including a Hypercar project expected in 2027.
Team leaders described the roster as a long‑term investment. Alunni Bravi said the group reflects the health of McLaren’s talent system as Formula 1 enters a new era under revised engine and aerodynamic rules.
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