Pato O’Ward, the McLaren IndyCar driver, required medical attention due to food poisoning after participating in the first practice session at the Mexico Grand Prix. Despite feeling unwell, O’Ward managed to complete 30 laps, clocking the 13th fastest time during the session.
Medical Situation
Following the session, O’Ward’s condition deteriorated. He experienced severe diarrhea and dehydration, resulting in a three-hour stay at the medical center on-site. At 5:30 p.m. local time, he was still receiving IV fluids and medication to stabilize his heart rate.
Practice Session Details
The 26-year-old driver was participating in the session in place of McLaren’s regular racer, Lando Norris. This adjustment was in compliance with a regulation designed to provide F1 experience to younger drivers.
Regulations for F1 Sessions
- Teams must designate two practice sessions per car each season for drivers with fewer than two Grand Prix experiences.
- The regular race driver continues for the rest of the weekend’s events.
Career Highlights
O’Ward has taken part in four F1 practice sessions with McLaren over the last four years. His participation includes last year’s event at the Mexico Grand Prix. This season in IndyCar, he celebrated two race victories and secured a second-place finish in the championship, trailing champion Álex Palou.
Future Plans
Post-session commitments, including interviews and promotional activities, had to be canceled due to O’Ward’s health issues. His team will likely monitor his condition closely as the race weekend progresses.
