Formula Renault 3.5 rookie Stoffel Vandoorne has joined McLaren's Young Driver Program. The 20-year-old Belgian will compete for Fortec Motorsports this year after winning the 2012 Formula Renault Eurocup.
"I'm absolutely delighted to have been selected to be part of the McLaren Young Driver Program," Vandoorne said. "McLaren is one of the greatest names in global motorsport, and to be a part of the McLaren Young Driver Program is an honor and a privilege. I fully intend to do my very best to maximize this opportunity in terms of both learning and results for years to come."
Vandoorne joins fellow FR3.5 title hopeful Kevin Magnussen – who drove for McLaren during last year's F1 young driver test at Yas Marina – and FRenault Eurocup driver Nyck de Vries in the program.
McLaren F1 team principal Martin Whitmarsh added: "We're delighted to announce that Stoffel is now part of the McLaren Young Driver Program. He's an able and ambitious young driver, and we have high hopes for him."