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.
F1 rules mandate two FP1 practice sessions per year must be driven by a rookie and to help fulfil that obligation, McLaren’s Reserve Driver Hirakawa will contest the opening hour of running at the Yas Marina Circuit this weekend.
The Japanese star joined McLaren’s ranks in September last year but is famed for his role in Toyota’s FIA World Endurance Championship lineup.
Hirakawa has enviable accolades on the sportscar racing scene including victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022 and claiming the FIA WEC title in 2022 and 2023.
His appearance in Abu Dhabi follows McLaren testing runs in the MCL35M in 2023 and the MCL36 in 2024.
As well as fielding a rookie during the regular season, teams must field one during the post-season test at Abu Dhabi and this is where Mexican superstar O’Ward steps in.
O’Ward has already made one appearance in the MCL38 this campaign, contesting FP1 at his home Grand Prix in Mexico City.
The Mexican is a beloved fan favourite on the IndyCar scene, where he has impressed with the Arrow McLaren outfit since 2020.
O’Ward has seven IndyCar race wins and 26 podiums to his name, including a heartbreaking runners-up finish at this year’s Indianapolis 500.
The Mexican driver has contested a total of three FP1 sessions with McLaren and together with Hirakawa, has assisted the team with simulator runs.
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