Mexican driver Pato O'Ward from Arrow McLaren IndyCar will participate in the first free practice session of the 2025 Mexico Grand Prix for the second consecutive year. McLaren confirmed that the 25-year-old driver from Monterrey will take control of the MCL39 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez before the race on October 24. According to the team, O'Ward will provide support during the race weekend and contribute feedback to adjust the cars of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
In Pato O'Ward's words upon hearing the news, he mentioned: 'While getting valuable time in the MCL39, Pato will provide support during the race weekend, offering feedback to help with the setup of the car for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to hit the track.'
The Mexican serves as McLaren's reserve driver in Formula One, and this role has kept him in touch with the category. Andrea Stella, McLaren F1 team director, highlighted O'Ward's contribution last season and his good performance in the IndyCar Series, factors that make him an ideal driver for the first free practice session.
Stella also emphasized the importance of having Pato as a reserve driver, assuring that they have a wide group of drivers available if needed. After his duties in the IndyCar Series, Pato will be available for McLaren throughout the 2025 season, continuing his role in the successful 2024 Formula 1 Constructors' Championship.
To conclude, Pato O'Ward shared his excitement about returning to the track for his home race in Mexico during FP1.
