Pato O’Ward is set to make his Formula 1 race weekend debut this season when he runs in his first practice sessions for McLaren.
Pato has previously driven last year’s McLaren car in private tests, but will now get a taste of current F1 machinery in a Grand Prix weekend environment, as McLaren look to fulfill their obligation under the regulations to give this young Mexican driver practice runs.
Arrow McLaren SP driver Pato O’Ward will take the wheel of the MCL36 in the first practice at the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
While Spanish driver Palou – the 2021 IndyCar champion – will take over Daniel Ricciardo’s car for FP1 at next week’s United States Grand Prix at Austin.
Mega excited to share with you all that I will be driving for @McLarenF1 next week at COTA during Free Practice 1 🚀 @F1 #USGP pic.twitter.com/ZUFsT7MkEK
— Alex Palou Montalbo (@AlexPalou) October 14, 2022
O’Ward declared: “I can’t wait to get out on track in Abu Dhabi. I’ve developed as a driver and had a lot of fun testing last year’s car with the team, so it will be a great experience to drive the MCL36. Thank you McLaren F1 for the opportunity.”
Source: F1.com
