In a bold move, McLaren has officially secured the signature of 18-year-old Italian sensation Brando Badoer, following a year of impressive performances in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA). After closely evaluating Badoer’s skills and progress, the British team has exercised its option on the young talent, welcoming him into their coveted Driver Development programme.
McLaren’s Commitment to Young Talent
Stephanie Carlin, McLaren’s Director of F1 Business Operations, expressed her enthusiasm for the team’s latest acquisition. “It’s great to welcome Brando to our Driver Development programme. Over the past year, we’ve been closely monitoring his progress, and his impressive rookie season in Formula Regional made the decision to bring him on board a natural one. We’re excited to see him in McLaren colours as he continues his journey in the FIA Formula 3 Championship with Prema Racing,” she said.
Badoer’s Excitement: A Dream Come True
The young driver, son of former F1 driver Luca Badoer, couldn’t hide his excitement about this career-defining opportunity. “I am thrilled to become part of the McLaren Driver Development programme. McLaren’s rich racing heritage and history of developing young talent make this a fantastic opportunity for me. Competing in the 2025 FIA Formula 3 Championship with Prema Racing will be a crucial next step in my career, and I’m grateful for McLaren’s support. I’m eager to learn and grow with the team,” Brando stated.
Badoer’s Meteoric Rise: From F4 to FRECA
Badoer has been making waves in the junior racing categories over the past two years. His career trajectory includes stints in the Formula 4 UAE Championship and the Italian Formula 4 series, where he racked up five podiums in 2023, including impressive second-place finishes at iconic tracks like Imola and Monza.
In early 2024, the young Italian further showcased his potential by securing three podiums in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship. Following this, he stepped up to the FRECA series with Van Amersfoort Racing and has already clocked seven podium finishes, including five second-place results and two third places—making him one of the standout performers in the field.
The Next Step: FIA Formula 3 with Prema Racing
As Badoer prepares to take on the 2025 FIA Formula 3 Championship with Prema Racing, he will be joining forces with fellow McLaren Driver Development member Ugo Ugochukwu. McLaren’s programme, spearheaded by Stephanie Carlin, focuses on nurturing future racing stars, with opportunities across Formula 1, IndyCar, and Formula E.
Badoer’s journey within the McLaren fold draws clear parallels to the rise of Lando Norris, who was also part of the development programme between 2017 and 2018. McLaren fans and the motorsport world alike will be watching closely to see if Badoer can follow in the footsteps of Norris and become the next homegrown star to make the leap into F1.
With the 2025 season around the corner, all eyes will be on Badoer as he embarks on this crucial chapter of his career under the guidance of McLaren and Prema Racing. Will the Italian ace prove to be the next big thing in motorsport? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: McLaren is betting big on this rising star.
