О'Ward to stand in for Norris in Mexico practice

McLaren has announced that Pato O'Ward will drive Lando Norris's car in first practice for this weekend's Mexico City Grand Prix.

Norris is unwell and will miss the session, with O'Ward stepping in to give McLaren some data on the car ahead of qualifying.

The Mexican driver has driven for McLaren in Formula 1 before, having taken part in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi last year.

He is also a two-time IndyCar race winner and the 2021 IndyCar championship runner-up.

O'Ward said he was "excited" to get back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car.

"It's a great opportunity for me to learn and to help the team," he said.

"I'm looking forward to getting out on track and seeing what the car is like.

"I'm sure it will be a lot different to the IndyCar, but I'm confident that I can adapt quickly."

McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl said O'Ward was a "natural choice" to stand in for Norris.

"He's a very talented driver who has a lot of experience in different categories," Seidl said.

"We're confident that he can do a good job for us in first practice and help us to prepare for qualifying."

Norris is expected to be fit for qualifying and the race.