"I desire Formula 1," states Italy's newly crowned F2 champion.
"One of my greatest dreams has been realized."
Newly crowned Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli claims that joining McLaren's development program has set him "on the path I’ve always wanted," emphasizing that his long-term goal is clear – Formula 1. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport following the unexpected announcement, the 21-year-old expressed that the past week, which involved winning the F2 title in Qatar and quickly securing a deal with McLaren, has been quite overwhelming. "One of my greatest dreams has been realized," he stated.
Fornaroli was widely regarded as a standout talent who had not been backed by any F1 academy, making McLaren's swift recruitment of him a significant development. He confirmed that discussions regarding next year's program are underway. "We’re working on it with McLaren," he mentioned. "Once the program is finalized, we’ll announce it together.
"McLaren provides an excellent racing program in WEC and IndyCar, but my primary focus remains on Formula 1." He revealed that he has already met with team principal Andrea Stella. "Andrea is truly an amazing person who is already teaching me many things to improve both on and off the track," Fornaroli noted.
The Italian also highlighted the impressive pool of young talent emerging from his country, mentioning his childhood friend Kimi Antonelli, who celebrated with him after his title win in Qatar. "We grew up together," he remarked. "I’m very proud of him and the journey he is taking in Formula 1."
Fornaroli explained that his ability to remain calm under pressure, demonstrated in last year’s final-corner F3 title and this season's rookie F2 campaign, is deliberate. "I think a lot during my races," he elaborated. "Consistency and seizing every opportunity is essential."
Regarding Abu Dhabi, he stated that while the pressure is off, his aim remains to clinch the teams’ championship for Invicta. "I want to finish the year strongly – and of course, I’ll be watching the Formula 1 race. With three drivers separated by just a few points, whoever performs best will win."
McLaren's latest signing wrapped up with: "I want Formula 1."
Other articles
Antonelli discloses Verstappen's profanity-laden backing.
Formula 1 | Kimi Antonelli mentioned that both Max Verstappen and Lando Norris contacted him privately after the 19-year-old Mercedes newcomer faced a barrage of online (…)
"Fantastic" that the Haas-Toyota partnership is intensifying - Ocon
Formula 1 | Esteban Ocon expressed that Haas' strengthening partnership with Toyota is positive for the team, following the American outfit's announcement that it will compete as TGR Haas (…)
Marko confesses that he's completely backing Max for the championship.
Formula 1 | Dr. Helmut Marko has disclosed that he has made his customary bet in Abu Dhabi - and, as expected, the 82-year-old is supporting Max Verstappen to (…)
Zhou evaluating Ferrari's stability against Cadillac's opportunity.
Formula 1 | Zhou Guanyu acknowledges that he remains uncertain about his position in the Formula 1 paddock for the next season, as the interest from newcomer Cadillac adds complexity to the situation (…)
Verstappen describes Tsunoda's axe as 'reasonable.'
Formula 1 | Max Verstappen remarks that Yuki Tsunoda has managed his unexpected demotion in a typical manner as the Japanese racer gets ready for what could be his last Formula 1 (…)
'Content' Palou clarifies the reasons for the end of his F1 aspirations.
Formula 1 | Alex Palou maintains that he has no regrets about giving up his longstanding aspirations in Formula 1, despite acknowledging that he will be supporting Max (…)
"I desire Formula 1," states Italy's newly crowned F2 champion.
Formula 1 | Recently crowned Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli states that joining McLaren's development program has set him on the trajectory he has always aspired to. (…)