McLaren announce popular F1 driver switch after…..read more
McLaren has confirmed that popular IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward will once again get the opportunity to showcase his talent on Formula 1’s global stage, with a scheduled appearance during the first free practice session (FP1) at this year’s Mexico City Grand Prix. The session, set to take place at the iconic Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez on October 24, will mark another significant moment in the young driver’s career as he performs in front of a passionate home crowd.
This won’t be the first time the Monterrey-born racer gets behind the wheel of a McLaren F1 car at this venue. O’Ward previously participated in FP1 during the 2024 edition of the Mexican Grand Prix, also stepping in for regular driver Lando Norris. That experience proved to be an important milestone for the driver and a valuable opportunity for the team to assess his potential in a Formula 1 setting.
Now, with the 2025 season well underway, McLaren has decided to give O’Ward another shot to impress in front of his home fans. The decision reflects both the team’s confidence in his abilities and a continued effort to integrate drivers from its wider motorsport program into Formula 1 operations. O’Ward, who has been competing for Arrow McLaren in IndyCar, is considered one of the brightest talents outside F1 and has frequently been linked to future roles within the Formula 1 team.
Speaking about the announcement, O’Ward expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the grid in Mexico. “I’m excited to be jumping back in the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico this year,” he said. “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.” His comments highlighted the unique energy and support he felt from the local crowd during his previous outing, which made the experience all the more memorable.
O’Ward’s return to FP1 at the Mexican Grand Prix is also a strategic move for McLaren. Formula 1 regulations require teams to give rookie drivers opportunities to participate in practice sessions, and giving O’Ward this slot not only helps meet that requirement but also provides the team with useful feedback from a fresh perspective. Additionally, it allows McLaren to continue evaluating his growth and readiness for future opportunities within the sport.
The Mexican Grand Prix is known for its electric atmosphere, with thousands of fans packing the stands to cheer on their favorite drivers. For O’Ward, who enjoys hero status among Mexican motorsport enthusiasts, the chance to drive in front of them once again is as much a personal honor as it is a professional challenge. The roar of the crowd, the vibrant culture, and the familiarity of the venue make this race weekend particularly meaningful for the 25-year-old.
In summary, McLaren’s decision to field Pato O’Ward in FP1 at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix is both a reward for his continued strong performances and an exciting opportunity for fans to see one of their own compete at the highest level of motorsport. It also reinforces the team’s commitment to nurturing talent from within its ranks while deepening its connection with a vital and enthusiastic fan base.
