The Italian driver participated in two days of testing organized by McLaren, as part of the TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) program, designed to give young drivers, or development drivers in the program, the opportunity to drive older cars Formula 1After Barcelona and Silverstone, this was indeed the third test of this type for the champion of Formula 2 2025.
The Italian driver, however, was discovering the Circuit of the Americas in Austin for the first time. In total, Fornaroli completed 77 laps, approximately 425 kilometers, in varying conditions. The first day unfolded in intense heat and considerable humidity, while the second offered cooler temperatures, allowing the 21-year-old driver to continue his learning in different track conditions. The program included simulations of long stints, shorter runs, as well as start procedures and formation laps to continue acquiring all the necessary information to master behind the wheel of a modern Formula 1 car.
A first for Fornaroli on the Circuit of the Americas.
Very pleased with this new opportunity, Leonardo Fornaroli was satisfied and enthusiastic after the trial. "It's always incredible to drive a Formula 1 car. I sincerely thank McLaren for giving me another opportunity and for allowing me to be behind the wheel of an F1 car like the MCL60 again." explains the 2025 Formula 2 champion.
The former Invicta rider also believes he is improving with each outing with the British team. “I’m feeling more and more comfortable with the car and the team. The testing program was more demanding than my last test at Silverstone.” the Italian believes.
The Texas circuit also seems to have made a positive impression on the driver, who was discovering the Austin track for the first time. "It was my first time driving on the Circuit of the Americas. I absolutely loved it, and I'm already looking forward to my next opportunity to drive a Formula 1 car."Fornaroli was present at the Canadian Grand Prix in his role as McLaren reserve driver. He will now continue his work with the Wokig-based team in the simulator, in preparation for the Monaco Grand Prix.
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Yves-Henri RANDIER
01/06/2026 at 11:22 a.m.
A driver being trained at breakneck speed in case the rumor of Piastri leaving for Red Bull Racing to replace Verstappen in 2027 is confirmed?