In a bold move to enhance their driver development programme, McLaren made significant changes at the beginning of 2023. The primary goal of this overhaul was to provide better support for young drivers at the karting level and pave the way for a potential ascent to Formula 1. The team made key additions to their roster, including 2023 FIA F3 champion Gabriel Bortoleto, F1 Academy driver Bianca Bustamante, American junior Ugo Ugochukwu, and Italian Formula 4 talent Brando Badoer. These young talents joined McLaren IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward and F1 reserve Ryo Hirakawa in the revamped programme.
One of the significant changes in the McLaren driver development programme was the departure of ex-McLaren F1 test driver Pirro. Pirro was tasked with leading the programme when he joined in 2023. However, he recently announced his departure via social media. It is reported that Pirro had a one-year contract with McLaren, which was not extended. The management decided to bring the young driver programme in-house, under the guidance of newly-appointed F1 business operations director Stephanie Carlin. Carlin, the former team principal of the Rodin Carlin F2 and F1 Academy squads, will now oversee the McLaren driver programme with the support of senior McLaren engineers.
In an emotional Instagram post, Pirro expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with the McLaren driver development programme. He shared his accomplishments in scouting and signing talented young drivers, aiming to groom them into future McLaren champions. Pirro emphasized the importance of providing unique support to developing drivers while instilling professionalism and experience from the McLaren teams they represent. Despite stepping aside from his role, Pirro expressed confidence in the internal resources that will continue to nurture the programme and facilitate its growth. He extended his best wishes to the drivers he worked with, as well as those who will collaborate in the future, affirming that the future of motorsport is in safe hands.
In addition to the changes in the driver development programme, McLaren also announced a restructure in its technical department. Former Ferrari engineer David Sanchez departed from the team after a brief three-month tenure due to a reported ‘misalignment.’ The team appointed ex-Red Bull stalwart Rob Marshall as the new chief designer, signaling a shift towards a new direction in their technical leadership.
The revamped McLaren driver development programme under the leadership of Stephanie Carlin marks a new era for young talent aspiring to reach Formula 1. The changes in personnel and structure within the programme and the technical department reflect McLaren’s commitment to grooming future racing stars and strengthening their competitive edge in the world of motorsport. The departure of Pirro and the appointment of new key figures highlight McLaren’s determination to evolve and succeed in the ever-changing landscape of Formula 1.