McLaren Confirm Pato O’Ward to Replace Lando Norris for FP1 at the Mexican Grand Prix
McLaren have officially confirmed that IndyCar sensation Pato O’Ward will step into Lando Norris’s seat for the first practice session (FP1) at this weekend’s Mexican Grand Prix. The decision not only fulfills the team’s rookie driver requirement but also gives the Mexican star a chance to shine on home soil in front of an adoring crowd.
O’Ward, who recently wrapped up a remarkable season in IndyCar, will return to Formula 1 action as part of McLaren’s development and reserve program. The 25-year-old (turning 26 later this year) enjoyed his best IndyCar campaign yet, securing two victories, six podiums, and finishing second overall in the drivers’ championship—behind former McLaren F1 reserve Alex Palou. His impressive form has further solidified his reputation as one of the brightest young drivers outside Formula 1.
This weekend’s race at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez marks O’Ward’s return to familiar territory. Having already taken part in F1 practice sessions at the 2022 and 2023 Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, as well as the 2024 Mexican GP, he will once again be behind the wheel of McLaren’s MCL39 to help the team fine-tune their setup for what promises to be another highly competitive weekend.
McLaren confirmed the news in their official Mexican Grand Prix weekend preview, stating:
> “We also look forward to welcoming back Pato O’Ward for FP1. He will be taking the wheel of Lando’s MCL39, supporting the team in their setup ahead of another competitive weekend.”
The session will help McLaren meet the FIA’s regulation that requires every team to run a rookie driver—defined as someone with two or fewer F1 race starts—in at least two FP1 sessions for each car during the season. With the IndyCar season now concluded, McLaren have also announced that O’Ward will resume his role as the team’s official reserve driver, supporting both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri for the remainder of the 2025 Formula 1 campaign.
An official statement from the Woking-based outfit read:
> “Following the conclusion of his Arrow McLaren driving duties in the 2025 NTT IndyCar Series, Pato will be available to the team in the same role he held throughout McLaren’s Formula 1 constructors’ championship-winning season in 2024.”
This means O’Ward will once again be on standby to step in should either of McLaren’s full-time drivers be unable to race.
Norris to Miss FP1 — and Potentially Help Piastri’s Title Charge
While O’Ward’s inclusion has thrilled Mexican fans, it also means that Lando Norris will sit out the opening practice session of the weekend. Interestingly, Norris isn’t the only top driver to miss FP1—Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, is also expected to skip the session as part of Red Bull’s rookie driver commitment.
This situation could prove advantageous for Oscar Piastri, who remains in the thick of the title fight. By participating in all sessions, Piastri will gain extra track time at one of the most challenging venues on the calendar—a potential edge in the championship battle.
The Mexico City circuit sits over 2,000 meters above sea level, making it the highest-altitude track in Formula 1. The thin air significantly affects both engine performance and aerodynamics, while drivers also face reduced oxygen levels. Missing FP1 could therefore make adapting to these conditions more challenging for Norris and Verstappen, though both are experienced enough to recover lost time during FP2 and beyond.
O’Ward’s Excitement to Drive at Home
Understandably, O’Ward is relishing the chance to represent McLaren once more at his home race. In a statement shared by the team, the Mexican driver expressed his enthusiasm and pride:
> “I’m excited to be jumping back in the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico this year. 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 looking forward to going again this year, working with Zak, Andrea, and the whole team.”
His participation is also expected to draw strong support from the local crowd, with the Mexican Grand Prix consistently ranking among the most passionate and vibrant events on the F1 calendar.
McLaren’s Faith in O’Ward
Team Principal Andrea Stella praised O’Ward’s consistent progress and valuable contributions to McLaren’s broader motorsport efforts:
> “We are pleased to confirm that Pato O’Ward will participate in Free Practice 1 at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix as he gains valuable time behind the wheel of the MCL39. Pato provided an appreciated contribution last season and continues to impress in the NTT IndyCar Series, making him a suitable driver for the FP1 session.”
Stella further emphasized that the experience will help expand McLaren’s pool of capable drivers ready to step up when needed:
> “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.”
As the Formula 1 circus heads into Mexico City, all eyes will be on O’Ward to see how he performs in front of his home fans—and whether his return to the cockpit hints at bigger F1 ambitions in the near future.
