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McLaren Confirm Pato O’Ward for 2025 Mexican GP FP1 Session
McLaren Racing has officially announced that Pato O’Ward will return to the Formula 1 spotlight during the first free practice session (FP1) at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix. Scheduled for October 24 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, the session will mark a special homecoming for the 25-year-old Mexican IndyCar star.
This appearance won’t be O’Ward’s first at his home Grand Prix. He previously impressed fans and the team during the FP1 session at the 2024 Mexican GP, substituting for Lando Norris. That outing was widely viewed as a valuable development opportunity, and his strong performance has now earned him a second shot in front of a passionate home crowd.
Currently a full-time driver in the IndyCar Series with Arrow McLaren, O’Ward is renowned for his aggressive racing style, consistent results, and dynamic personality. His inclusion in the FP1 session reflects McLaren’s commitment to nurturing talent within its wider motorsport ecosystem, while also honoring a driver who continues to generate excitement across racing disciplines.
“I’m thrilled to be jumping back into the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico,” O’Ward said following the announcement. “The energy from the fans last year was incredible, and it felt amazing to deliver everything the team asked for. I’m really looking forward to doing it all over again.”
The move also satisfies the FIA’s requirement that teams run a rookie or non-regular F1 driver in at least two FP1 sessions each season. But for McLaren, this is more than just a rulebook exercise it’s a strategic evaluation of O’Ward’s F1 readiness.
As anticipation builds for the Mexico City Grand Prix a race known for its electric atmosphere and immense national pride all eyes will be on O’Ward. With every lap, he’ll be looking to impress not just his team and fans, but also stake his claim as a serious contender for a future Formula 1 seat.
