McLaren Confirms Pato O’Ward for FP1 at 2025 Mexican Grand Prix
In a forward-thinking and patriotic move, McLaren has confirmed that Pato O’Ward, their reserve driver and current IndyCar standout, will take part in the first free practice session (FP1) at the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix. Though the event is still months away, scheduled for 26 October, the British team is already planning ahead by announcing the inclusion of O’Ward, a proud native of Monterrey, Mexico, in their line-up for the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez.
O’Ward, 25, has been a key part of McLaren’s broader motorsport program, excelling in the IndyCar Series while also serving as a reserve driver for their Formula 1 outfit. His upcoming FP1 appearance in Mexico will mark an important milestone in his F1 journey and will give the home fans a special moment to look forward to. This appearance is part of McLaren’s fulfillment of a current F1 regulation that mandates each team to run a rookie driver—defined as someone with no more than two Formula 1 race starts—in at least two practice sessions throughout the season.
Although the team has not yet revealed whether Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri will step aside for O’Ward during FP1 in Mexico, this early announcement demonstrates McLaren’s long-term planning and its ongoing efforts to nurture rising talent. It also underscores the team’s intent to connect with fans on a more personal level by spotlighting a local hero at one of the most vibrant and passionate races on the calendar.
The decision is not only a celebration of Mexican talent but also a strategic move to give O’Ward further F1 experience. Having already tested with McLaren in previous sessions, including at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test and various private runs, O’Ward is no stranger to the cockpit of an F1 car. His performance in IndyCar—where he has consistently been a frontrunner—continues to validate his potential for a future role in Formula 1.
McLaren’s team principal, Andrea Stella, has spoken in the past about the importance of giving their reserve and development drivers real-world track time, noting that simulator work, while useful, cannot fully replicate the experience of live sessions under race conditions. By placing O’Ward in the car during a high-profile weekend such as the Mexican Grand Prix, McLaren is giving him both valuable experience and a massive stage to perform on, with a crowd that is certain to be cheering loudly for their homegrown star.
This move could also boost McLaren’s brand visibility in North America, a market that continues to grow in importance for Formula 1. With three Grands Prix in the United States and the Mexican round drawing significant local support, having a Mexican driver represent the team—if only temporarily—helps cement fan engagement in the region.
O’Ward’s inclusion is likely to be well-received by fans both in Mexico and abroad. His charisma, aggressive driving style, and strong performances in IndyCar have already earned him a loyal following. Now, with another chance to step into the F1 spotlight, he will have the opportunity to further prove himself in front of the paddock and potentially position himself for a future full-time seat.
As McLaren looks ahead to maintaining its competitive edge, integrating talents like O’Ward into their Formula 1 plans shows both strategic depth and a commitment to the global racing community. For now, all eyes will be on Mexico City this October, where Pato O’Ward will aim to make the most of his moment on home soil.
