In a thrilling crossover move, Arrow McLaren IndyCar star Pato O’Ward is set to showcase his skills on new ground at the Formula E Mexico City E-Prix in January. O’Ward will treat fans to a demonstration run in his Arrow McLaren IndyCar, followed by a stint behind the wheel of the NEOM McLaren Formula E car, broadening the connection across McLaren’s extensive racing lineup. Formula E teased this appearance on social media, and O’Ward soon confirmed it, marking him as the standout McLaren driver to navigate multiple racing disciplines this season.
This comes fresh off O’Ward’s recent outing at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he participated in a practice session with McLaren’s Formula 1 team on the iconic Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit. Formula E uses an alternate track layout for its race at the venue, giving O’Ward a fresh challenge as he navigates the electric car dynamics on this modified track.
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has been vocal about encouraging O’Ward’s interest in diverse motorsport experiences, hinting at potential future appearances for O’Ward in NASCAR, including the Daytona 500. O’Ward himself is eager to make his mark in NASCAR, particularly with the upcoming Mexico City Cup Series race in mind, as IndyCar eyes Mexico City as a potential race venue in the near future.
Meanwhile, McLaren’s Formula E roster has its own highlights, with veteran Sam Bird and young talent Taylor Barnard set to compete when the season kicks off in Sao Paulo on December 7. Bird, a 12-time winner, and Barnard, who last season made waves as the youngest starter and podium finisher, promise a dynamic campaign for McLaren as they look to bring their electrifying racecraft into the spotlight.
With O’Ward bridging the IndyCar and Formula E worlds, McLaren’s ambitious multi-discipline strategy is a clear sign of its drive to make waves across motorsport. For fans, O’Ward’s participation in Mexico City offers an exhilarating preview of McLaren’s forward-thinking plans as he edges closer to possible future NASCAR and Formula E appearances.
