Need to know
McLaren have named their complete Formula One line-up for the 2026 season, including the destinations of some of their most exciting young motorsport prodigies
15:21, 15 Jan 2026
Lando Norris will have a new team-mate in his corner for the 2026 F1 season(Image: Mark Sutton - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images)
Everything you need to know about McLaren's complete 2026 driver line-up after Leonardo Fornaroli was confirmed as a reserve driver.
Fornaroli appointed as F1 reserve: Leonardo Fornaroli, the reigning Formula 2 champion, will serve as a Reserve Driver while also participating in an "intensive testing and sim programme" to support the F1 team. The Italian prospect is well-placed to benefit from FP1 outings during the 2026 season.
O’Ward maintains F1 role: Alongside his primary commitment to the Arrow McLaren IndyCar squad, Pato O'Ward will continue to provide backup for the Formula 1 squad. The Mexican racer has made regular FP1 appearances over the past few seasons.
Nine high-potential drivers on board: The 2026 lineup features diverse talent, including Christian Costoya, Matteo De Palo, Ella Hakkinen, Ella Lloyd, Ella Stevens, Dries Van Langendonck, and Richard Verschoor.
McLaren preparing for WEC entry. Richard Verschoor will compete in the European Le Mans Series as part of a strategic testing program designed to prepare the team for its "upcoming World Endurance Championship entry." The 25-year-old finished third in F2 last year before joining McLaren in a surprise announcement.
F1 Academy commitment: McLaren have doubled their commitment to the F1 Academy series by entering two cars, represented by Ella Lloyd and Ella Stevens, to help "opening pathways into motorsport for women." Ella Hakkinen, daughter of two-time world champion Mika Hakkinen, will also compete in Formula Four.
Karting prodigies stepping up: Both Dries Van Langendonck and Christian Costoya are stepping up to Formula 4, marking a significant milestone in their professional racing journeys. Van Langendonck made waves with his single-seater debut at the end of the 2025 European season.