McLaren has unveiled its plans for the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend and post-season testing, with fan-favorite Pato O’Ward and endurance racing ace Ryo Hirakawa taking the spotlight. The team’s decision underscores its commitment to cultivating top-tier talent from across motorsport disciplines.
Ryo Hirakawa’s FP1 Debut
Japanese endurance racing superstar Ryo Hirakawa will make his Formula 1 Free Practice debut at the Yas Marina Circuit, fulfilling McLaren’s rookie requirement for the season.
Hirakawa, a two-time FIA World Endurance Champion and 2022 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, joined McLaren’s roster in September 2023. Despite being best known for his success with Toyota in endurance racing, Hirakawa has steadily integrated into McLaren’s F1 operations, with previous tests in the MCL35M and MCL36 solidifying his versatility.
Pato O’Ward Returns to the MCL38
IndyCar sensation Pato O’Ward will take the wheel during the post-season test following the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Mexican ace, who electrified fans with his FP1 outing at his home Grand Prix in Mexico City, is set to showcase his adaptability once again.
O’Ward’s résumé is nothing short of impressive. Since joining Arrow McLaren in IndyCar in 2020, he has amassed seven victories and 26 podium finishes, including a dramatic second-place finish at the 2023 Indianapolis 500. This marks O’Ward’s fourth FP1 session with McLaren, underscoring the team’s belief in his potential.
McLaren’s Driver Development Vision
McLaren’s rookie selections for Abu Dhabi highlight its strategy to nurture talent from diverse motorsport backgrounds. Both Hirakawa and O’Ward have proven themselves in high-pressure, elite environments—whether navigating the grueling challenges of endurance racing or fighting wheel-to-wheel in IndyCar.
Their participation also reflects McLaren’s growing emphasis on utilizing its simulator drivers and reserve lineup effectively, ensuring a seamless pipeline of race-ready talent for future opportunities.
What to Watch
As the 2024 Formula 1 season concludes, all eyes will be on the rookies as they take their place in the limelight:
- Hirakawa: How will his endurance expertise translate to a blistering single-seater session under the lights at Yas Marina?
- O’Ward: Can the IndyCar star make another strong impression as he builds a case for a potential future in Formula 1?
One thing is certain—McLaren’s driver program continues to be one of the most dynamic and exciting to watch as it bridges the worlds of F1, IndyCar, and endurance racing.