McLaren Racing Locks In Pato O’Ward with a Two-Year Contract Extension in IndyCar – Sky Bulletin

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McLaren Racing has solidified its relationship with Pato O’Ward by signing the driver to a multi-year contract extension, a recent announcement from the IndyCar team confirms.

The talented 24-year-old from Mexico, who is gearing up for his fifth IndyCar Season – all of which have been with the Arrow McLaren team – also serves as a reserve driver for the McLaren Formula 1 outfit.

As reported by The Indianapolis Star, the two-year contract extension comes after his F1 reserve driver promotion and extends his McLaren tenure beyond the originally agreed-upon 2025, increasing his remuneration by $10.2 million. These details surfaced through court documents amid McLaren’s legal dispute with Alex Palou over a contract mix-up, ahead of the imminent IndyCar season kickoff.

With an impressive tally of four victories and twenty podiums in 64 starts, O’Ward has proven himself a key player at McLaren. Furthermore, he has achieved the Super License necessary for F1 participation. Post the IndyCar season’s conclusion in September, he is set to assume the role of McLaren’s reserve F1 driver.

O’Ward expressed his excitement about the new agreement, stating, “McLaren has become home for me, and I am proud that I’ll be racing in papaya for a few more years at least.”

McLaren’s Arrow McLaren team principal, Gavin Ward, discussed the expansion of the team around O’Ward. Alongside O’Ward, the team’s lineup includes Alexander Rossi and David Malukas, although Malukas is expected to sit out the initial two races of the season due to injury.

Ward acknowledged the synergy between the driver and the team, saying, “We’re thrilled to continue racing with him and I look forward to showing the racing world what we can achieve as a group.” He added that securing the deal before the start of the season allows the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet crew to approach the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg focused and with a clear objective.

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FAQ:

  1. How long has Pato O’Ward been racing with McLaren’s IndyCar team?
    Pato O’Ward has been racing with McLaren’s IndyCar team for five full seasons.
  2. What additional role does O’Ward hold with McLaren Racing?
    In addition to being a driver for the IndyCar team, O’Ward is also the reserve driver for McLaren’s Formula 1 team.
  3. What is the financial value of O’Ward’s contract extension with McLaren?
    The contract extension reportedly increases O’Ward’s earnings by $10.2 million.
  4. When does the IndyCar season begin, and when does it end?
    The IndyCar season begins next week and ends in September.
  5. Will Pato O’Ward be participating in F1 races?
    Pato O’Ward has obtained his Super License and will be McLaren’s reserve F1 driver following the end of the IndyCar season.

Conclusion

The extension of Pato O’Ward’s contract with McLaren Racing cements the bond between the driver and the team as they head into another competitive IndyCar season. With a solid foundation in place and a collective focus on victory, both O’Ward and the McLaren team anticipate showcasing their collaborative prowess on the racing circuits. The extension, highlighting O’Ward’s growing importance within the McLaren racing family, adds momentum as they gear up for the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg devoid of any contract-related distractions. Fans of the sport will undoubtedly be watching closely to see what O’Ward and his team can achieve in the upcoming races.



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