Leonardo Fornaroli set for Haas F1 TPC test at Jerez

Fornaroli lined up for Haas Jerez test

Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli is set to continue his Formula 1 development with a Haas test at Jerez this week, as the Italian begins exploring potential routes onto the grand prix grid for 2027.

That timing is significant. Fornaroli made his F1 session debut with McLaren in FP1 at the Barcelona Grand Prix, finishing fifth and ending the session 0.8s away from pacesetter George Russell. In a category where first impressions matter, the performance strengthened the sense that his rise is now being measured not only in junior-series terms, but against the standards required for a future F1 seat.

Stella praises attitude, speed and consistency

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella offered a clear endorsement of Fornaroli after Barcelona, underlining why the Italian remains firmly on the radar.

“I’m very happy with his attitude, speed and consistency,” Stella said of the McLaren development driver.

He added: “Leonardo is definitely an asset for Formula 1 and we want him to drive. He could certainly do that for McLaren Racing in the future, but at the same time we are working together to explore every opportunity that may arise in Formula 1.”

That final line is the key. McLaren is not closing the door on Fornaroli, but it is also actively allowing the search for wider openings. In modern F1, a young driver’s route rarely depends on one team alone; mileage, visibility and timing can be just as important as affiliation.

Haas emerges as a possible opening

Haas could become one of those opportunities. Oliver Bearman is described as likely to stay, but Esteban Ocon is fighting for his future amid a difficult 2026, leaving the team’s longer-term picture under scrutiny.

The Jerez programme will also include Haas reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa, who is expected to take part. For Fornaroli, however, the test carries particular strategic weight: another chance to demonstrate adaptability, composure and pace in Formula 1 machinery while the 2027 market slowly begins to form around him.