7 April 2026 18:00 (UTC)
"The run plan was more advanced, so I got to try some different setups and run with different levels of fuel, which continues to support my understanding of driving a Formula 1 car"
McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Reserve Driver Leonardo Fornaroli was back in the MCL60 at Silverstone on Tuesday as part of his continued progression in the Driver Development Programme, completing a second F1 test with the team.
Working with our Testing of Previous Cars Team, Leonardo drove our 2023 car for the second time, following his debut at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in March.
The 21-year-old completed 68 laps (393km) around Silverstone. His programme was an evolution of the one he ran during his maiden test as the team looks to continue with his development plan. The plan focused on longer runs, lower fuel loads, and a mix of Hard and Soft tyres.
In the weeks since his first test, Leonardo has continued to support the team trackside, attending the Japanese Grand Prix. He has also been a regular at the McLaren Technology Centre, working closely with the team and logging extensive simulator time.
The Italian will continue to drive the MCL60 throughout the year with further tests planned at a variety of different circuits as part of his ongoing training in the McLaren Driver Development Programme.
“Another good day on track - it was amazing to be back in the MCL60. Silverstone is one of my favourite circuits, so I’m grateful to McLaren for the opportunity to get back behind the wheel of an F1 car there.
“With it being my second test, the run plan was more advanced, so I got to try some different setups and run with different levels of fuel, which continues to support my understanding of driving a Formula 1 car. I’m very happy with today, and I continued to make improvements from my test a few weeks ago, getting even more comfortable with these machines.
“I look forward to continuing to test this year, something that is very important as part of my role as McLaren Mastercard Reserve Driver, and for my development within the DDP programme.”
