McLaren has announced that it will hand reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli his Formula 1 debut this weekend in first practice ahead of the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix.
Reigning world champion Lando Norris will sit out the opening session of the seventh round of the season, with Fornaroli taking his seat for his debut.
Fornaroli is a key part of McLaren's driver development programme and is its official reserve driver, joining the Woking-based outfit last December.
The 21-year-old has taken part in three TPC tests (Testing of Previous Cars), one of which took part at this weekend's venue.
"I’m looking forward to getting to drive the MCL40 this weekend in Spain for Free Practice 1. It’s a great opportunity to support the team with their preparations and work through the planned Friday programme.
"It’s also a very special milestone for me personally, as it will be my first official Formula 1 session. It’s something I’ve worked towards for a long time, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take this next step with McLaren Racing.
"The experience I’ve gained so far this year through the multiple Testing of Previous Cars events I’ve successfully completed has been so valuable for my development and overall learning of driving a Formula 1 car.
"Thank you to Zak, Andrea and Alessandro for their continued support and I can’t wait to get in the car on Friday."
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