McLaren announces surprise driver change months in advance

McLaren has announced that IndyCar star Pato O'Ward will drive in practice for October's Mexico City Grand Prix.

O'Ward, the leader of McLaren's IndyCar programme, will take over the MCL39 in Free Practice 1 at his home circuit for his latest outing to fulfil one mandatory young driver slot required in 2025.

O'Ward has previously taken part in the young drivers' test in Abu Dhabi in 2021, before making his weekend debut at the 2022 Abu Dhabi GP, and has since driven in FP1 at the '23 Abu Dhabi and '24 Mexico City Grands Prix. 

He has also conducted private testing for McLaren under TPC conditions. 

It remains to be announced who O'Ward will replace, but under the new rules, both Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris must give up their cars for two FP1 sessions apiece.

"I’m excited to be jumping back in the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico this year," 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."

McLaren boss Andrea Stella also highlighted O'Ward approach which makes him a "suitable driver."

"Pato provided an appreciated contribution last season and continues to impress in IndyCar, making him a suitable driver for the Free Practice 1 session," he added.

"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."