Leonardo Fornaroli will return to competitive racing in 2027 after McLaren confirmed the reigning Formula 2 champion will join their World Endurance Championship Hypercar programme while maintaining his role as a Formula 1 reserve driver. Fornaroli stated that becoming part of the McLaren Hypercar Team marks a thrilling new phase in his professional journey, and he appreciates how his position as McLaren Formula 1 reserve driver paved the way for this fantastic chance.
Fantasy & Market Impact
- Fornaroli shifts from simulator duties back into a competitive racing seat, bolstering his long-term stock within the Woking driver pool.
- Red Bull capitalize on commercial activation in the United States with high-profile brand engagement ahead of the Austin Grand Prix.
- McLaren cement a multi-series pathway for young talent, balancing Formula 1 development with top-tier endurance racing.
Fornaroli Balances Formula 1 Reserve Duties and WEC Hypercar Debut
The 21-year-old Italian secured the Formula 2 crown in 2025 after claiming the Formula 3 title in 2024. Throughout the 2026 season, Fornaroli focused on simulator work, testing previous-generation cars, and making two Friday practice appearances at the Spanish and Hungarian Grands Prix.
🚨 | Rafael Camara is firmly in the race for a 2027 Haas seat.The Brazilian is competing with F2 Champion Leo Fornaroli and Red Bull reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda.
Fornaroli described the dual-track opportunity as a major career milestone. Joining the McLaren Hypercar Team is an incredibly exciting next step in my career and I’m grateful that my role as McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 reserve driver has opened up this incredible opportunity,
Fornaroli stated, as noted by gpblog.com.
McLaren Hypercar Team Principal James Barclay praised the young driver’s trajectory. Barclay noted that Leo possesses remarkable ability, pointing out that capturing the Formula 3 championship is already a major feat, but backing it up with a Formula 2 title highlights his innate skill and establishes him among motorsport’s most thrilling competitors.
It was a great experience,
Fornaroli admitted. Believing the team has assembled the ingredients needed to make an impact, he added: It’s an amazing feeling to be part of this programme.
Barclay also explained that his earlier experience with the Italian played a part in his positive assessment of the signing, stating: Having collaborated briefly with Leo in a previous capacity, Barclay mentioned he was deeply impressed by the driver’s work ethic and output, and added that both men are eager to tackle McLaren’s maiden World Endurance Championship campaign side by side.
| Driver | Junior Success | 2026 Role | 2027 Programme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leonardo Fornaroli | F3 Champ (2024), F2 Champ (2025) | F1 Simulator & Reserve | WEC Hypercar & F1 Reserve |
Red Bull Unveil Ford-Inspired Austin Makeover
Red Bull have revealed a special American-inspired livery and team aesthetic ahead of the United States Grand Prix. Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar will wear Ford Raptor-inspired racing suits during the Austin weekend, drawing on American off-road motorsport culture.
The transformation extends across the entire team infrastructure. Red Bull personnel will wear matching apparel, and the team garage will receive a custom Ford Raptor design. Verstappen will sport a modified helmet featuring his traditional lion motif combined with American West graphics, including a cowboy hat.
The team has scheduled several supporter events throughout race week. A special launch event will take place on October 21, followed by Red Bull Austin Race Nights running from October 22 to 25, featuring driver appearances, racing simulators, and interactive fan zones.
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