Pato O’Ward to Join McLaren in Mexico City
Mexican racer Pato O’Ward will return to the Formula 1 paddock this October when he takes the wheel of McLaren’s MCL39 in Free Practice 1 at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix. At 26 years old, O’Ward brings local knowledge and fresh energy to the team’s setup work at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez on Friday, October 24.
Building on Previous FP1 Outings
This isn’t O’Ward’s first taste of Grand Prix running. He impressed in FP1 sessions in Abu Dhabi (2022 & 2023) and at his home race last season. Each appearance has helped him refine his feedback on car behaviour and tyre performance—vital data for McLaren’s two full-time drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
What It Means for McLaren
- Valuable Track Time: Rookie and reserve drivers are permitted up to two FP1 runs per season. These sessions help teams gather extra data on tyre degradation, aerodynamics, and race-start setups.
- Support Role: O’Ward will work closely with McLaren CEO Zak Brown, Team Principal Andrea Stella, and engineering staff to optimise the MCL39 ahead of qualifying and the race.
- Fan Engagement: Bringing a Mexican talent to the grid fuels local enthusiasm and connects the team with passionate home support.
“I’m excited to be jumping back in the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico,” said O’Ward. “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.”
F1’s Rookie Practice Regulation
Under current Formula 1 regulations, each full-time driver must step aside for a rookie—defined as someone with no more than two Grand Prix starts—in two practice sessions over the season. This rule ensures fresh talent gains experience and teams benefit from additional track running.
What’s Next?
McLaren has hinted at announcing its remaining three young-driver FP1 sessions for 2025 “in due course.” Fans should stay tuned for updates as the season unfolds and more opportunities arise for reserve drivers to showcase their skills.
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