P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren has confirmed its rookie driver line up for the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and post-season test will comprise Ryo Hirakawa and Pato O’Ward.
McLaren’s Reserve Driver Hirakawa will participate in the FP1 practice session at the Yas Marina Circuit this weekend to meet the requirement of having rookies drive in two FP1 sessions per year as per F1 rules. Hirakawa, known for his success in the Toyota FIA World Endurance Championship lineup, joined McLaren in September last year. He carries impressive achievements in sportscar racing, such as winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022 and securing the FIA WEC title in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, he has conducted testing in both the MCL35M and MCL36 in previous years.
On the other hand, Mexican superstar O’Ward will be representing McLaren during the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, as teams are required to field a rookie during this event. O’Ward, popular in the IndyCar community, has been a standout performer with the Arrow McLaren team since 2020. He boasts seven IndyCar race victories and 26 podium finishes, with a notable second-place finish at this year’s Indianapolis 500. O’Ward previously took part in an FP1 session during the Mexico Grand Prix. In total, he has participated in three FP1 sessions and contributed to simulator runs for McLaren alongside Hirakawa.
