The Formula 2 champion is making serious moves behind the scenes, and now he’s dropping hints that a full-time F1 seat could be closer than fans think. Leonardo Fornaroli, the 21-year-old Italian who joined McLaren’s development program after his F2 title win, has already turned heads in two FP1 outings this season.
His performances in Barcelona and Hungary caught the attention of team bosses Zak Brown and Andrea Stella, both of whom are reportedly big fans. But with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri locked in at McLaren, Fornaroli knows his path to the grid likely lies elsewhere.
According to reports from BBC Sport’s Andrew Benson, the most probable landing spot for the young driver is Haas. Esteban Ocon’s seat there is reportedly under pressure, and Fornaroli’s private two-day test with the American team back in June only adds fuel to the speculation.
Now, speaking to F1. com, Fornaroli confirmed he’s actively pushing for a deal. “Absolutely.
We’re working on it, trying to make it happen,” he said, adding that he’s focused on the present but believes they’re “in a good place.”
Next up, the Dutch Grand Prix, where Fornaroli will get another FP1 chance with McLaren. With so many 2027 seats still up for grabs, could this be the audition that changes everything?
