For the second consecutive year, McLaren has announced that their IndyCar driver, Pato O’Ward, will participate in Free Practice 1 at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix. The 26-year-old Mexican racer will take over one of McLaren’s MCL39 machines for the start of his home event at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez on Friday, October 24. F1 EXPLAINS: What it’s like to switch between F1 and IndyCar – with McLaren racer Pato O’Ward, in addition to gaining some more valuable track time at a Grand Prix weekend, O’Ward will also assist and provide set-up feedback to full-time drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.O’Ward declared, “I can’t wait to be back in the car for FP1 in my home race in Mexico this year.” “Last time out, the Mexico City supporters were incredible, and it was wonderful to be able to really enjoy the program that the team had prepared.
“I’m excited to go again this year, working with Zak [Brown, McLaren CEO], Andrea [Stella, McLaren Team Principal], and the entire team.”
Stella added: “We are thrilled to report that Pato O’Ward will compete in Free Practice 1 at the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix, gaining vital experience behind the wheel of the MCL39.
“Pato made an important contribution last season and continues to impress in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, making him an appropriate driver for the Free Practice 1 session.”
“This will give Pato with further information as he continues to be accessible as part of our reserve driver pool for the second year, ensuring we have a large pool of drivers available to be called upon if needed.”
“Pato made an important contribution last season and continues to impress in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, making him an appropriate driver for the Free Practice 1 session.”
“This will give Pato with further information as he continues to be accessible as part of our reserve driver pool for the second year, ensuring we have a large pool of drivers available to be called upon if needed.”
