McLaren Announces Replacement Of F1 Driver
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix comes later this season, and McLaren has revealed that Pato O’Ward, who has been successful in the IndyCar series, would take the wheel during FP1.
O’Ward will get the chance to drive in Formula 1 for a second time at the same event after doing so last year, in post-season testing as well.
The Arrow McLaren team believes the Mexican has accomplished enough to be eligible for his F1 super license after he placed fourth in the IndyCar Series this season.
Following the Singapore GP, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella informed the reporters, “We are checking with the FIA, we think he’s eligible now for a super license. So he’s qualified to drive a Formula 1 car and be in a position to be one of the [McLaren] reserve drivers.”
The set shared a picture on Instagram announcing O’Ward’s comeback.
O’Ward may get additional opportunities from McLaren
The reason McLaren thought he would be a viable candidate to participate in testing is ultimately due to his strong results throughout the IndyCar season.
As part of new rules introduced by the FIA at the beginning of 2022, all F1 teams must make sure they let a rookie driver participate in at least two practice sessions this season.
Oscar Piastri, who is competing in F1 for the first time, met one of these requirements when he started driving in Bahrain back in March.
O’Ward will finish up the last section of this now. Stella said, “We’re excited to have Pato in P1 and at the exam”.
