Arrow McLaren driver Pato O’Ward revealed that he willingly appeared in just his underwear for a daring KitKat promotional video ahead of the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix. The promo, released about a month after O’Ward was named the face of KitKat’s campaign at the event, showcases the driver embracing the brand’s famous slogan in an unconventional way.
Details of the KitKat Promotional Video Featuring Pato O’Ward
Pato O’Ward shared the new KitKat advertisement on his social media, where he is seen walking toward a large tub filled with KitKats, dressed in a bathrobe. In the clip, he playfully dismisses social media notifications by kicking a notification icon away, before stripping off the bathrobe and jumping into the tub wearing only his underwear. The promotional spot features Queen’s iconic track I Want to Break Free, tying in with KitKat’s well-known tagline,
“Have a break, have a KitKat.”
The artistic choice of music and O’Ward’s actions represent a break from distractions, aligning perfectly with the brand’s message. As O’Ward snaps a KitKat in half and enjoys it, the emphasis is clearly on stepping away and taking a moment to relax.
O’Ward’s Personal Input on the Commercial’s Final Cut
Motorsports reporter Nathan Brown revealed that O’Ward contributed creatively to the advertisement’s concept. Originally, the plan was for the driver to enter the chocolate-filled tub fully clothed. However, O’Ward suggested a more daring approach, insisting on appearing in just his underwear to reflect his real-life approach to cold baths.
“I was supposed to go in with clothes on into the tub & I said, ‘When have you ever seen me go into an ice bath with clothes on?’ And they were like, ‘Well…’”
—Nathan Brown, Motorsports Reporter
“No, underwear. I don’t mind. I’m not shy.”
—Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren Driver
This spontaneous decision added authenticity to the promo, demonstrating O’Ward’s comfortability and willingness to bring his personality into the campaign.
Background on KitKat’s Partnership and O’Ward’s Role
Since November 2024, Formula 1 has included KitKat as its official chocolate bar partner following a sponsorship deal with Nestlé. For the second consecutive year, Pato O’Ward will represent KitKat at the Mexican Grand Prix. In addition to his role driving for Arrow McLaren in IndyCar, O’Ward serves as the reserve driver for McLaren’s F1 team, bridging his presence across both racing worlds.
Pato O’Ward’s Upcoming Participation in the 2025 Mexican Grand Prix
O’Ward is confirmed to drive McLaren’s 2025 F1 car, the MCL39, during the first practice session (FP1) at the Mexican Grand Prix on October 24, held at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. He had previously taken part in FP1 at the same venue during the 2024 race weekend, where he impressed by setting a P13 time and completing 21 laps.
“I’m excited to be jumping back in the car for FP1 at my home race in Mexico this year. The Mexico City fans were unbelievable last time out, and it was a great feeling being able to extract everything from the programme that the team had planned.”
—Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren Driver
His return to the McLaren cockpit at his home Grand Prix highlights his growing role within the team and the close connection he maintains with Mexican motorsport fans.
The Significance of O’Ward’s KitKat Promo and Future Prospects
Pato O’Ward’s choice to appear in underwear for the KitKat promotion adds a bold, personal touch to the brand’s campaign, demonstrating his confidence and willingness to engage with fans outside the racetrack. The promo‘s creative alignment with KitKat’s slogan aims to boost the brand’s visibility during a high-profile event where O’Ward will also be competing in the McLaren MCL39.
With KitKat’s increasing footprint in motorsport through this partnership and O’Ward’s simultaneous roles in IndyCar and Formula 1, his profile is expected to grow internationally. The 2025 Mexican Grand Prix promises to be an important stage for both the driver and the brand as they capitalize on the home crowd’s enthusiasm and global audience attention.