McLaren overhaul young driver programme, adding FRECA vice-champion De Palo

McLaren have announced major changes to their junior programme, dropping three drivers and adding another as they plan for 2026 and beyond.

The Woking based team have dropped long serving driver Ugo Ugochukwu, Brando Badoer and Martinius Stenshorne, having already allowed Alex Dunne leave. They have however added Formula Regional European Vice Champion Matteo De Palo to their team.

Ugochukwu, who has been announced by Campos for a second Formula 3 campaign in 2026 is the most notable departure having joined in 2021, but endured an up-down 2025 in F3 with strong results clear, but not much luck or consistency on his side.

📸 Ugo Ugochukwu.

Badoer, son of ex-F1 driver; Luca, departs after a poor rookie F3 campaign with PREMA that saw him end the year 25th out of 30 cars on the grid.

📸 Brando Badoer.

The departure of Stenshorne comes as a little surprise, given the Norwegian’s strong performances and late season Formula 2 debut, with a full time seat already signed with Rodin for 2026 in F2.

📸 Martinius Stenshorne.

De Palo, 17, is the latest young Italian prospect - hoping to follow the footsteps of compatriot Leonardo Fornaroli in winning for Trident in Formula 3 for 2026. He joins Ella Lloyd (F1 Academy), Dries Van Langendonck (British F4) and Pato O’Ward (IndyCar/F1 Reserve driver) in the programme, while young driver Christian Costoya (15 years old) is also expected to join.

📸 Matteo De Palo.

📸 Image credits: McLaren Racing, Formula Regional European Championship.