In a groundbreaking announcement, McLaren has confirmed that the talented racer Pato O’Ward will be taking on Free Practice 1 at the Mexican Grand Prix in October. The Mexican driver, who not only competes for Arrow McLaren in IndyCar but also serves as a reserve driver for the Formula 1 team, is set to electrify the track at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez for the second consecutive year on home soil.
Team principal Andrea Stella expressed the team’s excitement, stating, “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 Free Practice 1 session.”
O’Ward himself shared his enthusiasm, saying, “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 program that the team had planned. I’m looking forward to going again this year, working with Zak [Brown], Andrea, and the whole team.”
This strategic move not only allows O’Ward to showcase his skills in front of his home crowd but also provides McLaren with a valuable opportunity to assess his performance in Formula 1 machinery. As a part of the reserve driver pool for the second year running, O’Ward stands ready to step in if called upon, showcasing McLaren’s commitment to nurturing a diverse range of driving talent for the future.
With O’Ward’s appearance in Free Practice 1, all eyes will be on the young driver as he aims to make his mark on the prestigious Mexico City Grand Prix. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating display of speed and skill on the iconic Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit.
