Arrow McLaren IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward will be back behind the wheel of a McLaren Formula 1 car for the team’s one-day post-season test at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. O’Ward will drive the MCL38, with one car dedicated to rookies and another for regular drivers to perform tire testing. Although O’Ward’s participation is noteworthy, it is not connected to any potential 2025 Formula 1 seat, as McLaren has already secured Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri for next season. This test is part of McLaren’s standard post-season activities and provides valuable data and experience for the team.
In addition to O’Ward’s run for McLaren, the Abu Dhabi test will feature several other notable drivers. American Formula 2 driver Jak Crawford will test for Aston Martin, marking another step in his career progression. Le Mans winner Ryo Hirakawa will also join the test, making his debut with Haas. This is especially significant as it marks the first time a Toyota-backed driver will test for Haas following the collaboration between the two entities. Furthermore, 2025 rookie Gabriel Bortoleto will get his first taste of Formula 1 with Sauber during the test.
The tire test portion of the event will see some experienced drivers take to the track for their respective teams. Carlos Sainz, who will be driving for Williams next season, Nico Hulkenberg with Sauber, and Esteban Ocon with Haas will all be testing for their new teams. Notably, Yuki Tsunoda will get a rare opportunity to drive for Red Bull for the first time, as Honda has pushed for him to have a test with the senior team. This is part of the ongoing collaboration between Honda and Red Bull in the development of their Formula 1 cars.
These tests provide both rookies and veterans with valuable opportunities to gain experience and prepare for the upcoming season.
