Pato O’Ward Backed by Checo’s Father for Formula 1 Opportunity

January 15, 2025

Pato O’Ward has captured the hearts of fans worldwide, and the buzz around him joining the Formula 1 grid is louder than ever. The charismatic driver left a lasting impression during last October’s race at Mexico’s Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Alongside Sergio Perez, O’Ward gave the home crowd double the reason to cheer.

But now, the Formula 1 stage is without a full-time Mexican driver. Perez, who once stood as a beacon of Mexican pride in the sport, faced a tough 2024 season, resulting in his exit. With Checo no longer on the grid, the spotlight is on O’Ward to step up.

A Father’s Call to Action

Antonio Perez Garibay, Checo’s father, recently voiced his hopes for O’Ward and other Latin American talents to rise in Formula 1. Speaking to SoyMotor, he said:

“To enter Formula 1 is very difficult, but to be runner-up in the world championship is almost impossible. We are going to work for a Mexican to return to Formula 1, a Latin American.”

Antonio’s passion for representation in the sport was evident as he added:

“What is happening today, with Colapinto, with Checo, we have a little card there, we need to bring more cards. Hopefully soon we can have Pato O’Ward or other young Mexicans in Formula 1.

“I think McLaren should open the door for him.”

McLaren boasts two of the most exciting young talents in Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, making it challenging to consider a shuffle. “What about McLaren?” Antonio asked. “It’s the same as Red Bull or Ferrari, they have two very good tigers in their pen. I think that Norris and Piastri are great drivers, very young, they have to open the door for Pato.”

With O’Ward’s proven track record in IndyCar and undeniable charisma, fans and pundits alike are wondering if McLaren might take the leap.

What’s Next for Pato O’Ward?

Could McLaren’s lineup include a Mexican driver in the near future? The conversation around diversity and representation in motorsport continues to gain traction, and Antonio Perez’s sentiments reflect the hopes of many Latin American fans.

Whether O’Ward gets his shot remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: the demand for a new Mexican star in F1 is real.