McLaren Restructures Driver Development Program, Adds Leonardo De Palo After Alex dunne Departure
WOKING, UK – McLaren Racing has announced a significant overhaul of its driver development program, welcoming newcomer Leonardo De Palo while together parting ways with several previously supported drivers, including Formula 2 racer Alex Dunne. The restructuring signals a shift in McLaren’s approach to nurturing young talent as it seeks drivers with “adaptability, consistency and growth.”
The program now consists of just four drivers: De Palo, karting prospect Dries Van langendonck, F1 Academy competitor Ella Lloyd, and IndyCar star pato O’Ward. The changes come little more than a month after McLaren’s unexpected separation from Dunne, who was the sole Formula 2 driver within the program and participated in two FP1 sessions during the 2023 Formula 1 season. This streamlining reflects McLaren’s intention to focus resources on a smaller,more targeted group of drivers.
“We are pleased to welcome Leonardo De Palo to the McLaren Driver Development Program,” said Andrea Stella, Team Principal.”He is a promising talent who embodies the qualities we look for – adaptability, consistency and growth.” Alunni Bravi added, ”We look forward to supporting his development in racing and other aspects of being a racing driver as part of our program.” De Palo expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Joining the McLaren driver development program is a great honor. The team has a fantastic track record of developing talent.”
O’ward recently drove the MCL39 during the first practice session at the Mexico Grand Prix, a role previously occupied by Lando Norris.
Current McLaren Driver Development Program Roster:
| Driver | Racing Series |
|---|---|
| Leonardo De Palo | RUB |
| Ella Lloyd | F1 Academy |
| Pato O’Ward | IndyCar |
| Dries Van Langendonck | Kart |
