Mexico’s Pato O’ Ward will drive for McLaren in FP1 at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix.
O’ Ward previously drove for McLaren in FP1 at his home event in 2024 after he previously made FP1 appearances in Abu Dhabi in 2022 & 23 respectively, with this announcement marking the fourth time that he will participate in a FP1 session for the team.
Speaking about his latest opportunity, O’ Ward commented: “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 programme that the team had planned. I’m looking forward to going again this year, working with Zak, Andrea and the whole team.”
McLaren F1’s Team Principal, Andrea Stella added that the team is “pleased” to once again run O’ Ward at his home event with aim to give him “valuable time” behind the MCL39, after he produced excellent contributions throughout last season alongside his continuous IndyCar commitments for the team.
“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.
“This will provide further knowledge for Pato as he continues to be available as part of our reserve driver pool for the second year, ensuring we have a wide pool of drivers available to be called upon if required.”
Confirmation of O’ Ward’s FP1 run comes just weeks after Mexico City GP agreed a new contract beyond this season until 2028.
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