Strategy

Fornaroli set for Hungary FP1 with McLaren

Answer

Confirmed

F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli will drive McLaren's MCL40 in FP1 at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix. This marks his second FP1 outing of the season. McLaren will introduce upgrades on the car during the session.

FP1 opportunity for Fornaroli

F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli will drive McLaren's MCL40 in FP1 at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix.^[1] This is his second such outing this season. McLaren will introduce upgrades on the car. Fornaroli replaces Oscar Piastri for the opening 60-minute session at the /tracks/hungaroring.

Upgrades and development role

McLaren confirmed the session on its preview page.^[2] Fornaroli, a McLaren Driver Development member, gains further mileage in the car. He made his FP1 debut in Barcelona earlier this season. The team described the Hungary run as another chance to build experience.

Context for 2026 season

^[1]: https://racingnews365.com/f1-hopeful-handed-latest-grand-prix-weekend-outing ^[2]: https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2026/hungarian-grand-prix/preview/