McLaren confirms Leonardo Fornaroli and Pato O’Ward as reserve drivers for 2026

McLaren Racing has confirmed its reserve driver line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season. FIA Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli will join Pato O’Ward as reserve drivers for the McLaren Formula 1 Team.

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McLaren Racing has officially announced that Leonardo Fornaroli and Pato O’Ward will serve as reserve drivers for the McLaren Formula 1 Team in the 2026 season.

For Fornaroli, the role comes after winning the FIA Formula 2 title. The Italian driver will combine his reserve duties with an expanded role as Test and Development Driver within McLaren’s Driver Development Programme. He will take part in simulator work and testing to support the Formula 1 team, especially important ahead of the major regulation changes coming in 2026.

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“I’m thrilled to be stepping into an extended role with the McLaren Formula 1 Team as Reserve Driver. It’s an exciting next step in my journey, and I’m proud to be part of such a successful, championship-winning team,” Fornaroli said.

O’Ward will continue as reserve driver alongside his full-time racing programme in IndyCar with Arrow McLaren. The Mexican driver already has experience testing McLaren’s Formula 1 cars and remains a key part of the team’s backup line-up.

“I am excited to continue in my role as Reserve Driver for the McLaren Formula 1 Team. I’ve learned a lot testing and driving F1 cars over the past few years, and I’m looking forward to continuing that development,” O’Ward said.

The Driver Development Programme includes nine drivers

McLaren also confirmed its full 2026 Driver Development Programme. Alongside Fornaroli and O’Ward, the line-up includes Christian Costoya, Matteo De Palo, Ella Häkkinen, Ella Lloyd, Ella Stevens, Dries Van Langendonck and Richard Verschoor.

The programme supports young drivers across Formula 4, Formula 3, F1 Academy, endurance racing and single-seater testing, with the long-term goal of progressing talent towards Formula 1, IndyCar and McLaren’s future World Endurance Championship entry.

James Whitaker

James Whitaker is a British sports journalist with a strong focus on Formula 1 and MotoGP. Known for his clear and engaging style, he delivers the latest news and easy-to-follow analysis from the fast-paced world of motorsport. His work aims to make the complexities of racing accessible to both hardcore fans and casual readers alike. Whether covering the drama of a Grand Prix weekend, breaking down technical developments or highlighting standout performances, James brings a passion for racing and a journalist’s eye for detail to every story he tells.