McLaren Racing has announced Matteo De Palo‘s entry into their Driver Development Programme, expanding their lineup of young drivers destined to grow within the Woking structure. For the 18-year-old Roman, this is a hugely significant step in his still young career, a recognition that places him among the most promising prospects in the international scene.
Matteo De Palo’s Career from Karts to Minor Formulas
Born in Rome, De Palo took his first steps in karting in 2016, quickly making his mark in the 60 Mini, OK-Junior, and OK categories, with notable results in the WSK Super Master Series and FIA Karting Academy Trophy.
His single-seater debut came in 2023 with Campos Racing in Spanish F4: a solid rookie season, crowned with one victory, three total podiums, and fifth place in the overall standings (second among rookies). Matteo complemented that commitment with appearances in both Italian and British F4, which is common among drivers in these championships.
In 2024, the move to Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine marked a new step forward, ending with one victory and a second place. 2025 with Trident Motorsport became his breakthrough year: four victories, seven podiums, and the Vice-Champion title, with highlights like the Barcelona victory that put him at the top of the championship mid-season.
Having proven himself as one of the most consistent and mature drivers in the field, De Palo has already defined the next chapter of his trajectory: in 2026 he will race in FIA Formula 3 with Trident, while in 2025 he will make his McLaren debut at the prestigious Macau Grand Prix, this time in papaya colors.
McLaren Young Driver Program: a Gateway to the Top
Joining the McLaren Driver Development Programme, led by Alessandro Alunni Bravi, represents Matteo’s access to a structure that aims to train drivers capable of reaching not only Formula 1 but also INDYCAR and the team’s future WEC endeavor.
Alunni Bravi welcomed the new Italian talent: “The McLaren Driver Development Programme is pleased to welcome Matteo. He is a highly promising young driver who has shown adaptability, consistency, and growth in recent seasons. We look forward to supporting his development, both in driving and in the broader aspects of life as a professional driver.”
In parallel, McLaren has confirmed the departure of Ugo Ugochukwu, Martinius Stenshorne, and Brando Badoer from the program, thanking them for their achievements during their tenure.
Matteo’s Excitement: “I Can’t Wait to get on Track in Papaya”
For De Palo, this is a move that opens new perspectives: “Joining the McLaren Driver Development Programme is a great honor. The team has an exceptional history in developing talent, and I’m excited to improve in every aspect of a driver’s life. Thanks to Zak, Alessandro, and the entire McLaren team. I can’t wait to get on track in papaya.”
With a career built step by step and continuously growing maturity, Matteo De Palo now adds a fundamental piece to his journey. 2025 will be a crucial year, and his McLaren debut at Macau could represent the first major test in his new papaya-colored adventure.