Palau, Oward to drive for McLaren in US and Abu Dhabi F1 FP1 races

Palo to race in FP1 at the United States Grand Prix, take over Daniel Ricardocar for a 60-minute session on the Tour of the Americas while O’Ward will drive Lando Norris‘s car during the opening practice session of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The outings followed the pair’s driver development tests in the MCL35M, and completed two young driver outings for the team as required by sporting regulations.

Team Leader Andreas Seidl said: “We are delighted to have Alex and Pato the opportunity to participate in the McLaren.

“With Alex’s tremendous success at IndyCar, it will be useful for the team to get his feedback on the car and as we continue to evaluate him as a driver.

“Alex and Pato have been impressed with their recent tests in Barcelona and Austria, and we are delighted to offer them their experience with the MCL36.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to showcase their skills on the global stage in Formula 1 and the focus will be on helping teams prepare for race weekends rather than eventual lap times.”

Patricio Oward, McLaren MCL35M

Photography: Zach Mogg / motorsport pictures

Oward, McLaren’s current star with the Arrow McLaren SP team, said: “I can’t wait to get on track in Abu Dhabi. As a driver, I have developed into a driver and last year with the team Tested a lot of fun cars, so driving the MCL36 will be a great experience.”

Palau, the 2021 IndyCar champion who will continue to drive for Chip Ganassi Racing next year despite his efforts to move to Arrow McLaren SP, said: Might have seen me drive in the US in front of fans who race IndyCar.

“Having now driven the 2021 McLaren MCL35M in several tests, I can’t wait to put the MCL36 through its paces. I look forward to helping the team prepare for the 2022 United States Grand Prix.”

Both drivers have won four IndyCar championships, with Oward winning the last two at Barber Motorsport Park and Iowa State. Palau’s title defense appeared to be winless in 2022 until he delivered arguably the most dominant performance of the IndyCar season in the final at Laguna Seca.