McLaren has lifted the lid on its reserve and development driver plans for 2026, confirming not only who will stand ready to step into a Formula 1 cockpit if needed, but also unveiling the latest intake of talent entrusted with shaping the team’s long-term future.
At the heart of the announcement is the continuation of Pato O’Ward’s dual-role commitment, alongside the arrival of reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, as McLaren blends proven experience with emerging potential across its ever-expanding racing portfolio.
O’Ward will remain McLaren’s F1 reserve driver in 2026, extending a relationship that has quietly become one of the most valuable cross-discipline partnerships in the paddock.
The Mexican star is firmly established as Arrow McLaren’s leading light in the NTT IndyCar Series, where he has raced for the team for six seasons while simultaneously contributing to its F1 operations.
The 26-year-old enjoyed the strongest campaign of his career in 2025, claiming two victories and finishing runner-up in the championship behind Alex Palou.
That form, combined with his growing experience behind the wheel of F1 machinery, has cemented his place in McLaren’s plans.
Read also: Why Dunne quit McLaren – and why he has no regrets“I am excited to continue in my role as Reserve Driver for the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team, alongside my primary duties in the NTT IndyCar Series with Arrow McLaren,” said O’Ward.
“I’ve learned an incredible amount testing and driving F1 cars over the past few years, so I am looking forward to this continued growth and development.”
O’Ward’s ongoing involvement offers McLaren continuity, flexibility and a proven performer ready to step in should the need arise.
McLaren Strengthens Talent Pipeline
Fornaroli was signed to McLaren’s Driver Development Programme in December. The 21-year-old effectively replaces Alex Dunne, who departed the Woking squad late last year and is expected to link up with Alpine.
The Italian’s arrival was widely seen as a shrewd move by McLaren, snapping up an F2 title winner who, until recently, was not affiliated with any F1 team.
“I’m thrilled to be stepping into an extended role with the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team as Reserve Driver as part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme,” Fornaroli said.
“It’s an exciting next step in my journey, and I’m looking forward to contributing to such a successful, Championship-winning team this season.
“A big thank you to Zak, Andrea and Alessandro for this opportunity.”
FIA F2 Champion Leo Fornaroli.
Beyond its reserve drivers, McLaren confirmed a seven-strong Driver Development Programme for 2026, drawing talent from across multiple racing disciplines.
Alongside O’Ward and Fornaroli, the roster includes Christian Costoya, Matteo De Palo, Ella Häkkinen, Ella Lloyd, Ella Stevens, Dries Van Langendonck and Richard Verschoor.
Led by Chief Business Affairs Officer Alessandro Alunni Bravi, the programme is designed to nurture drivers towards careers in Formula 1, IndyCar and McLaren’s upcoming World Endurance Championship effort.
With a mix of established winners and rising stars now in place, McLaren’s message is clear: its future is being built with purpose, depth and ambition.
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