Breaking: McLaren Announce popular driver Switch due to…read more
McLaren Announce popular driver Switch due to…read more
McLaren has officially confirmed that Mexican racing star Pato O’Ward will take part in the opening free practice session (FP1) of the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix, scheduled for 26 October at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. The decision, announced well in advance of the race weekend, reflects both the team’s strategic planning and a nod to O’Ward’s home-country support, giving the local crowd a chance to see one of their own take to the track in Formula 1 machinery.
O’Ward, currently a prominent figure in the IndyCar Series and serving as McLaren’s reserve driver, will take the wheel of the MCL39 during the FP1 session. This opportunity is part of a broader Formula 1 regulation requiring teams to allocate at least two free practice sessions each season to drivers who have participated in no more than two Formula 1 Grands Prix. This rule aims to provide valuable experience to emerging talents, offering them time on track in a real Grand Prix weekend setting.
Although McLaren has not yet clarified whether Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri will be stepping aside to allow O’Ward to participate in FP1, the announcement alone signifies the team’s dedication to nurturing fresh talent. It also strengthens McLaren’s ties with the North American racing scene, particularly given O’Ward’s success and popularity in the United States and Mexico.
At 25 years old, O’Ward has been a consistent front-runner in IndyCar and has long been regarded as one of the most promising drivers outside of Formula 1. His connection with McLaren extends beyond the F1 paddock, as he has competed for the team’s Arrow McLaren outfit in IndyCar. This FP1 session will mark another important step in his development within the McLaren Racing ecosystem and provide him with valuable F1 mileage.
The choice to place O’Ward in the car for the Mexican Grand Prix also highlights McLaren’s understanding of the significance of local representation in global motorsport. With the race taking place in his home country, O’Ward’s presence on the track is expected to generate significant excitement among Mexican fans and bring added attention to the event.
This move continues McLaren’s tradition of investing in young drivers while aligning with Formula 1’s broader objectives of global fan engagement and driver development. Whether O’Ward’s run in Mexico leads to more F1 opportunities remains to be seen, but his inclusion in FP1 is undoubtedly a key milestone in his journey with McLaren and a proud moment for Mexican motorsport.
