F2 star Leonardo Fornaroli will be making his debut in F1 on Friday, taking over Lando Norris’ spot to get experience on the grid.
Fornaroli won the F2 championship in 2025 after winning the F3 title the year before, making him one of the biggest gems in the sport.
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McLaren jumped at the chance to sign him to their academy, adding youth to the racing team and a future option.
This will be his first official session in F1, with him having run multiple tests in cars over the years. He hopes to give Lando Norris as much feedback as possible.
May 23, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CANADA; McLaren driver Lando Norris (1) during Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada sprint race at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
“I’m very excited to drive the MCL40 this weekend in the Barcelona-Catalunya FP1 session,” Fornaroli said.
“It’s going to be a great opportunity to help the team with their preparations and to work through the planned Friday programme. This is going to be a very important mission for me because it’s going to be my first official Formula 1 session. It’s something I’ve worked through for a long time, so very excited for it.
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“All the experience I’ve gained through the previous TPC days so far were very important for my development, so a big thank you to Zak, Andrea, and Alessandro, and to all the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team. Can’t wait for this weekend!”
What are Fornaroli’s chances of breaking into F1?
Getting a drive in F1 is based on multiple factors beyond just merit. A driver needs a spot to open up at the right time and then to get enough financial backing to make it worthwhile.
At McLaren, Lando Norris looks to be settled with the team, along with Oscar Piastri, who is also secured on a long-term contract.
McLaren driver Lando Norris (1) during the Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
However, things in this sport change quite quickly. Piastri has been rumored as a possible Max Verstappen replacement at Red Bull if the Dutchman leaves.
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Additionally, Norris has long been regarded as a star in the sport, with interest certain to come his way if he ever agitates for a move.
A move from either party looks unlikely, but a team can never be too comfortable, making the development of Fornaroli an important one to watch, as other lower-level teams could take a chance on his talent with an impressive session.
