A few weeks before the start of the season, McLaren organized two TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) test days at the Portimão circuit, future host of the Portuguese Grand Prix for 2027 and 2028.
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Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and reserve driver Leonardo Fornaroli shared the wheel of the 2023 MCL60 to accumulate mileage and prepare for the return of the Portuguese track to the calendar.
Norris completed 49 laps, compared to 55 for Piastri and 47 for Fornaroli. These two days allowed the team to gather valuable data on a circuit that will soon welcome Formula 1 again.
Reunion for Norris
For Lando Norris, this return to Portimão also had symbolic value. It was on this track that he made his very first test behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car in 2017, with the McLaren MP4-26: “It was a productive test and it was nice to be back at Portimão. This is where I drove a Formula 1 car for the first time, so this circuit has a special meaning for me. It is also a very enjoyable track, with fast and demanding corners.”
The Briton expressed satisfaction with the work done before the summer break: “We completed the entire planned program and accumulated valuable mileage. It’s a good way to conclude this first part of the season. I now look forward to spending time with my family and friends before coming back in great shape at Zandvoort.”
A discovery for Piastri
Oscar Piastri was discovering the Portuguese circuit for the first time behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car: “It was the first time I drove at Portimão. The changing conditions made driving particularly interesting, and the significant elevation changes make it a really fun track.”
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The Australian believes the set goals were fully achieved: “We successfully completed our entire program and the team is satisfied. It’s the right time to enjoy the summer shutdown. The season has been intense and this break will be beneficial for everyone before heading back to Zandvoort.”
More and more kilometers for Fornaroli
For Leonardo Fornaroli, these tests represented a new step in his development within McLaren’s young driver program: “I really enjoyed this experience at Portimão. It was the first time I drove on this circuit and every session behind the wheel of the MCL60 is important for my progress.”
The young Italian also highlighted the value of sharing these two days with the team’s regular drivers: “Working alongside Lando and Oscar was extremely enriching. Observing their approach in different conditions and listening to their feedback is a great source of learning. We covered a lot of kilometers and the wind made the conditions even more interesting.”
Fornaroli finally wanted to thank McLaren for the trust given: “I thank McLaren and the entire driver development program for their continuous support as well as all the opportunities they offer me. I feel that I improve with every outing and I look forward to continuing this learning.”
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