McLaren is making a bold statement, not just about their future in Formula 1, but about their ambitious return to top-tier endurance racing. They're doing it by placing immense faith in Leonardo Fornaroli, who is now confirmed for a groundbreaking dual role in 2027 – continuing his F1 development while simultaneously tackling the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with their brand-new Hypercar. This isn't just a career step; it's a launchpad for a young talent and a clear signal of McLaren's intent across multiple motorsports disciplines.

Fornaroli's Double Duty: Key Takeaways

Dual Role Confirmed: Leonardo Fornaroli will serve as McLaren's Formula 1 reserve and third driver for 2027.

WEC Hypercar Debut: He will also spearhead the team's entry into the World Endurance Championship with their new Hypercar.

Continued F1 Development: His extensive F1 program, including TPC sessions and FP1 appearances, will persist alongside WEC.

Le Mans Dream Realized: The young Italian will compete at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans much sooner than anticipated.

A New Era for McLaren and Fornaroli

This strategic move from McLaren underscores their deep commitment to nurturing young talent while simultaneously expanding their motorsport footprint. By retaining Leonardo Fornaroli in their Formula 1 fold and entrusting him with a pivotal role in their WEC Hypercar project, the Woking giant is signaling a comprehensive investment. Fornaroli's journey is set to accelerate, balancing the precision of F1 development with the raw challenge of endurance racing.

F1 Pathway: Honing Race Craft

Fornaroli has already been deeply embedded within McLaren's F1 program throughout 2026. This year has seen him accumulate invaluable experience through Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) sessions, two crucial Grand Prix free practice (FP1) appearances, and extensive simulator work. These activities are designed to integrate him fully into the team's operations and refine his understanding of an F1 machine. This rigorous development track will continue into the next season, ensuring his F1 readiness remains paramount.

The Italian driver expressed his appreciation for the learning curve. "The program McLaren has given me this year has been incredible," Fornaroli shared. "The TPC days I've completed with the team, the two FP1 sessions and all the work I've done in the simulator have been extremely valuable experiences. Every time I work with the team, I learn something new."

Conquering the World Endurance Championship

Beyond the F1 garage, Fornaroli faces an exhilarating new frontier: the World Endurance Championship. He's not just a driver; he's an integral part of McLaren's highly anticipated return to the pinnacle of endurance racing with their all-new Hypercar. His first taste of this cutting-edge machine was brief but impactful. He completed an initial lap, experiencing the unique sensation of a closed cockpit and the hybrid power delivery.

"It was a great experience," Fornaroli admitted, describing the unique sensation of electric power before the combustion engine kicked in. "Getting into a closed cockpit for the first time, shutting the door and setting off... was something completely new to me, but really, really cool."

Today marks his first extensive test, where he'll begin to truly familiarise himself with the Hypercar and contribute to its crucial development ahead of its WEC debut. This dual role means his F1 insights will undoubtedly prove beneficial, even for the different demands of endurance racing.

The Drive to Compete: Le Mans Beckons

For any racing driver, the sidelines can be agonizing. After a season largely dedicated to F1 reserve duties, Fornaroli is visibly thrilled to return to wheel-to-wheel competition. "Yes, I've really missed racing," he confessed. "Every weekend I'm at the track as a reserve driver, I get very jealous when I see Lando and Oscar racing. So getting back to racing is going to be an incredible feeling."

The prospect of tackling the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2027 adds another layer of excitement. This iconic race, a dream for many, is now within his grasp far sooner than he ever imagined. "Le Mans has always been a dream of mine. I never expected to have the opportunity to race there as early as next year," he said, reflecting the sheer thrill of this unexpected opportunity.

Fornaroli radiates confidence in McLaren's ambitious WEC entry. "It's an amazing feeling to be part of this programme," he stated. "We're talking about McLaren, a team that has achieved some incredible successes throughout motorsport history. Racing with them next year is going to be amazing." With a strong driver lineup, skilled engineers, and the legendary McLaren pedigree, the stage is set for a memorable debut.

The 2027 season is poised to be a pivotal chapter for Leonardo Fornaroli. It's a testament to McLaren's vision, offering a young talent the best of both worlds: continued F1 growth and the thrill of competitive racing in a global championship.