Moments of concern for McLaren during the Mexican Grand Prix Friday. After a fairly eventful first practice session, the Woking team experienced tense moments when one of its drivers required medical attention immediately after the checkered flag. The driver in question is Pato O’Ward, a beloved home favorite, who participated in FP1 behind the wheel of Lando Norris’ car but fell ill at the end of the session.
According to ESPN, Pato O’Ward suffered from severe physical discomfort due to an episode of food poisoning. The Mexican driver completed his scheduled program — 30 laps in total and a final 13th-place time. Immediately afterward, he was taken to the medical center at the Hermanos Rodríguez circuit, where he remained under observation for about three hours.
During treatment, Pato O’Ward received intravenous fluids and medication to counter the symptoms of severe dehydration. Sources indicate that the driver even considered skipping the session entirely. However, his desire to race in front of his home crowd convinced him to get back on track. After the medical check, he was cleared and returned to the paddock, but all media and sponsor commitments were canceled to allow him to recover.
Statements from the driver and McLaren
Despite the unfortunate incident, Pato O’Ward expressed great excitement about the opportunity to return to Formula 1 in front of his fans. “Being back on track here in Mexico was truly special. The fans are incredible and made me feel at home. I thank the team for this opportunity and for their support,” he said.
McLaren, for its part, sought to reassure everyone with a statement to RacingNews365: “The driver was checked after feeling unwell, but he is now fine and back with the team.” The team, however, did not confirm whether the illness was indeed food poisoning. Fortunately, it was only a major scare — but one that held the entire paddock in suspense.
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