McLaren's Pato O'Ward Treated for Food Poisoning After Mexico GP Practice

Pato O'Ward, the 26-year-old Mexican IndyCar driver, participated in the first practice session (FP1) of the Mexico Grand Prix driving Lando Norris's McLaren MCL39. Despite completing 30 laps and finishing 13th on the timesheets with no apparent impact on his pace, O'Ward suffered severe food poisoning symptoms, including diarrhea, dehydration, and stomach pain, shortly after his stint. He was treated at the circuit's medical center with IV fluids and medication, and his heart rate was monitored. Due to his condition, O'Ward missed scheduled media duties but later returned to support the McLaren team throughout the weekend. Both O'Ward and McLaren team principal Andrea Stella praised his contribution and professionalism despite the illness. Norris, who was replaced by O'Ward for FP1, resumed driving for the rest of the race weekend.