November 23, (THEWILL) – McLaren have announced that Mexican IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward will join their Formula One reserve driver programme for the 2023 season. The 24-year-old, who currently races for McLaren’s Arrow IndyCar outfit, will participate in Friday practice at this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
O’Ward has picked up four race wins and 20 podium finishes during his IndyCar career so far. He has previously tested F1 machinery with McLaren, including at last season’s Abu Dhabi event. “I look forward to joining the reserve driver pool for next year alongside my driving duties with Arrow McLaren,” O’Ward said.
The talented Mexican has long been on the radar of F1 teams, having previously been part of the Red Bull junior programme. He will join McLaren’s existing reserves Ryo Hirakawa and Mick Schumacher. Hirakawa won the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year, while Schumacher is the son of seven-time world champion Michael.
McLaren F1 principal Andrea Stella stated the move felt “natural” given O’Ward’s impressive 2023 IndyCar campaign and his strong showings in previous F1 tests. Stella also cited F1’s expanding calendar as a reason for wanting a broad selection of reserve drivers.
With Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in the race seats, openings at McLaren are unlikely in the near future. However, O’Ward’s promotion gives him a foot in the door should opportunities arise down the line.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
