Pato O'Ward, McLaren's reserve driver and current IndyCar competitor, will drive the MCL38 during the FP1 session at the Mexico City Grand Prix on October 25, making this his first Formula 1 outing of 2024. Expressing his excitement in a social media video, O'Ward described it as a 'dream come true' to race in front of his home crowd. He has a history of participating in F1, having previously driven in FP1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2022 and 2023, and he has also completed various tests for McLaren. Currently, O'Ward ranks sixth in the IndyCar standings with three wins this season, but he remains focused on his upcoming IndyCar race in Nashville before shifting his attention to F1 duties. McLaren is currently competing closely with Red Bull in the Constructors' Championship, adding pressure to O'Ward's performance in his FP1 role. O’Ward aims to contribute to the team's success with the 'rocket' car, as he prepares to travel to Europe for his F1 responsibilities.