Fornaroli lands Haas F1 test after McLaren debut

Leonardo Fornaroli’s impressive McLaren debut at Barcelona has already led to a concrete new Formula 1 opportunity, with Haas confirming the reigning Formula 2 champion will test its VF-25 at Jerez on 17-18 June as part of a two-day Testing of Previous Cars programme.

In an official statement, TGR Haas F1 Team said it “has the capacity to test and appraise drivers through its TPC program” and that “Leonardo Fornaroli, the 2025 FIA Formula 2 Champion, has subsequently been offered the opportunity to drive its VF-25 at the Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto, Spain, 17-18 June,” with reserve driver Ryō Hirakawa also attending the test.

The timing matters. Less than a week ago, Fornaroli made his first official F1 weekend appearance for McLaren in FP1 at Barcelona, where he finished fifth on the timesheets in Lando Norris’ car. That run immediately strengthened the sense that he is ready for more mileage in current-level machinery after joining McLaren late last year as a test and reserve driver following his F2 title.

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella made clear after Barcelona that the team sees Fornaroli as more than a short-term reserve. Stella said McLaren was “very happy with his attitude, speed and consistency” and added: “Leonardo is definitely an asset for Formula 1 and we want him to drive.” He also said McLaren is “working together to explore every opportunity that may arise in Formula 1.”

That search for opportunities is being shaped by McLaren’s own stability. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are both described as locked into the team on long-term deals, leaving no obvious near-term route for Fornaroli to step straight into a McLaren race seat.

That makes the Haas outing significant beyond simple extra track time. Fornaroli has already won the Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles in successive seasons, but he does not have a race seat this year, so testing for another team gives him a direct chance to build his case outside McLaren’s internal programme.

For Haas, the Jerez running offers a chance to evaluate one of the most decorated young drivers outside a current F1 lineup. For Fornaroli, it is the clearest sign yet that his Barcelona FP1 showing has moved him from promising reserve to active candidate in the search for a place on the 2027 grid.