McLaren Confirm Pato O’Ward for FP1 Appearance at 2025 Mexican Grand Prix
McLaren have confirmed that Pato O’Ward, one of the most thrilling young drivers in motorsport, will take part in Free Practice 1 (FP1) at the 2025 Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix. The popular IndyCar racer will drive in front of an adoring home crowd at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez on October 24, marking a significant moment in his career as he once again returns to F1 machinery.
This will be O’Ward’s second time participating in an official F1 session at his home race, having previously replaced Lando Norris in FP1 at the same venue during the 2024 season. His previous outing was met with immense excitement from Mexican fans, and the 26-year-old Monterrey native is thrilled to be making a return to the cockpit in front of a passionate local audience.
“I’m excited to be jumping back in the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico this year,” O’Ward said in a statement. “The Mexico City fans were unbelievable last time out, and it was a great feeling being able to extract everything from the programme that the team had planned. I’m ready to soak in the atmosphere once again and give the fans something to cheer about.”
O’Ward, who currently competes in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES for Arrow McLaren, remains part of McLaren’s reserve driver roster for the 2025 F1 season. His performance in both series has earned praise from the McLaren F1 leadership, who continue to see him as an integral part of their wider racing operations.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella spoke highly of O’Ward’s progress and contributions. “Pato provided an appreciated contribution last season and continues to impress in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, making him a suitable driver for the Free Practice 1 session. This will provide further knowledge for Pato as he continues to be available as part of our reserve driver pool for the second year, ensuring we have a wide pool of drivers available to be called upon if required.”
In addition to getting valuable time behind the wheel, O’Ward will play a supporting role throughout the race weekend. He will assist the engineering team with car setup and provide feedback to help optimize performance for McLaren’s lead drivers—Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. With the season heading into its final stretch by the time of the Mexican Grand Prix, both drivers are expected to be in the thick of the championship fight.
As of the latest race in Miami, Oscar Piastri holds a 16-point lead over his teammate Lando Norris in the drivers’ standings after a commanding victory. Meanwhile, reigning world champion Max Verstappen is currently sitting in third, adding extra intensity to the title race as the year progresses.
McLaren, on the other hand, has found itself in a dominant position in the constructors’ championship. After just six rounds, the Woking-based team has built a comfortable lead, setting themselves up for a strong push toward securing a second consecutive team title.
Pato O’Ward’s inclusion in FP1 not only highlights McLaren’s ongoing commitment to talent development across its racing programs but also brings an extra level of excitement to the Mexican Grand Prix weekend. With a homegrown star taking to the track and McLaren in top form, fans can expect a thrilling showcase both on and off the starting grid.
