P1racenews AI automatic summary:
O’Ward added to McLaren’s F1 reserve driver pool
Pato O’Ward will be replacing Lando Norris in the FP1 session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix season finale due to FIA regulations requiring a rookie driver in each car. This will be McLaren’s only change for a practice session this year, as Oscar Piastri qualified as a rookie for the opening Bahrain and Saudi Arabian GPs. O’Ward previously participated in the same session last year, finishing 18th fastest due to technical issues. He will also stay at the Yas Marina circuit for the post-race test next week. McLaren’s team principal, Andrea Stella, stated that O’Ward’s performance in the IndyCar series and driver development tests made it a logical step for him to take on this role. Additionally, McLaren has access to other reserve drivers through agreements with Mercedes and Aston Martin. Pato O’Ward will be joining the reserve driver pool next year while continuing his driving duties with Arrow McLaren. This move effectively replaces Alex Palou as a reserve driver, as McLaren has filed a lawsuit against him for prematurely terminating their contract.
