Leonardo Fornaroli surpasses 900km in first McLaren Formula 1 test programme

McLaren reserve driver Leonardo Fornaroli has completed his first run of Formula 1 tests, logging more than 900 kilometres in the team’s 2023 MCL60 across two circuits.

Barcelona: first taste of F1 machinery

“He made fantastic progress throughout, getting to grips with the F1 car incredibly quickly, and continuing to demonstrate the traits we’ve seen throughout his successful junior career of consistency and his rapid ability to learn and perform,” said McLaren chief business affairs officer Alessandro Alunni Bravi.

He added: “Tests like these are vital in ensuring he’s prepared as the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team’s reserve, as well as for his development within our driver development pathway.”

The emphasis was clear: this was not simply a familiarisation run, but a structured step in integrating Fornaroli into McLaren’s broader performance system.

Silverstone: expanding the programme

Fornaroli returned to action on 7 April at Silverstone, adding 68 laps (393km) to his tally. McLaren described the programme as featuring “longer runs, lower fuel loads, and a mix of hard and soft tyres” — a more advanced test plan reflecting his growing comfort with the car.

Across both outings, the 21-year-old has covered nearly three full grand prix distances in Formula 1 machinery.

“Another good day on track – it was amazing to be back in the MCL60,” Fornaroli said after the Silverstone test. “Silverstone is one of my favourite circuits, so I’m grateful to McLaren for the opportunity to get back behind the wheel of an F1 car there.”

He continued: “With it being my second test, the run plan was more advanced, so I got to try some different set-ups and run with different levels of fuel, which continues to support my understanding of driving a Formula 1 car. I’m very happy with today, and I continued to make improvements from my test a few weeks ago, getting even more comfortable with these machines.”

Further tests planned

McLaren has confirmed that Fornaroli will receive additional track time at a variety of circuits, while continuing to support the team both trackside and in the simulator.

For a driver transitioning from junior success to the demanding environment of Formula 1, the mileage already accumulated represents a significant first step — and a clear signal of McLaren’s intent to invest in his development.