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McLaren offer F1 lifeline to champion
McLaren has offered a chance to Italian racer Leonardo Fornaroli following his 2025 F2 championship win.
The recent Qatar Grand Prix saw McLaren’s F1 drivers facing setbacks and only the F2 title had been clinched, setting the stage for a thrilling Abu Dhabi season finale.
Despite focusing on the ongoing season, McLaren has expanded its driver development program by signing Fornaroli, who is famed for achieving back-to-back titles in F2 and F3.
With four wins and five podium finishes this year, Fornaroli’s inclusion in McLaren’s program signifies a potential pathway to F1 in the future.
In addition to Fornaroli, McLaren also welcomed Ella Stevens, Ella Hakkinen, Richard Verschoor, and Christian Costoya to their driver development program, highlighting the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent for future success.






