Leonardo Fornaroli Joins McLaren Hypercar Program for 2027 World Endurance Championship
McLaren Racing has confirmed that former FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli will join its Hypercar program for the 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). The 21-year-old Italian, currently serving as McLaren’s reserve driver in Formula 1, will make his sportscar debut after a year on the sidelines.
Fornaroli represents the first rookie driver announced for the McLaren MCL-HY, joining a lineup that includes established competitors Alex Lynn, Mikkel Jensen, and Laurens Vanthoor, who will pilot the Dallara-based LMDh vehicle.
In a statement, Fornaroli expressed his enthusiasm: “Joining the McLaren Hypercar Team is an incredibly exciting next step in my career. I am ready to give everything as we take on this new challenge together.”
McLaren Hypercar Team Principal James Barclay praised Fornaroli’s talent, noting that his achievements in junior categories reflect his speed and maturity: “His success in Formula 3 and Formula 2 makes him one of the most exciting drivers in motorsport.”
McLaren’s Hypercar debut will occur at the Qatar 1812KM, the opening round of the 2027 WEC season, scheduled for March 25-27, 2027.
