O'Ward the next Mexican in F1? 'We are moving in the right direction'

For Colton Herta, the dream of driving in Formula 1 is over. For now. The American, who competes in IndyCars, does not have enough points for a super licence. It cost him a seat at AlphaTauri. Another top IndyCar driver is much closer to getting his licence.

Pato O'Ward is a Mexican who drives for McLaren in America. In the past, a (brief) spell in Red Bull Racing's junior programme ended early. But he has certainly not given up hope of a seat in Formula 1, thanks to this contract with McLaren. Although he has a successful career in the United States, O'Ward would still like to move to Formula 1 eventually.

During the Mexican Grand Prix, O'Ward was seen in the paddock. The podcast F1 Nation spoke to him there and asked about his upcoming debut during a Grand Prix weekend. The Mexican will be in action for McLaren during the first free practice session in Abu Dhabi. Already he is looking forward to it immensely.

"I'm so excited, man," he says. "It is going to be the first official session I do in Formula 1. One of the first steps to a race seat. We are definitely going in the right direction. I am just really looking forward to it. I want to enjoy it, I want to help the team. Bring up Abu Dhabi, baby!"

To obtain a super licence, 40 points are required. When O'Ward finishes the session in Abu Dhabi, he will have 37 points.