Pato O'Ward walks away from Formula 1 ambitions to commit fully to IndyCar

Pato O’Ward has drawn a definitive line under his Formula 1 aspirations, telling Conor Daly’s Speed Street podcast that he has formally asked McLaren to release him from his reserve driver duties and has no desire to pursue a seat in the series.

“I’m grateful for the experiences and everything I’ve learned in the world of Formula 1,” O’Ward said. “But I think I’m in a different moment in my life now, and I no longer care. There is nothing in me that drives me to continue as a reserve in Formula 1, because I’m in a great moment in IndyCar. I love the category. That’s where I want to be.”

The Mexican driver, who has tested McLaren’s F1 machinery in recent years, also revealed he has little enthusiasm for the current generation of Formula 1 cars, which have drawn criticism from several drivers across the paddock. “I’m not excited to drive one, so I have kindly asked to be dismissed from all my services in Formula 1,” he said, adding that IndyCar “is the best place for more racing — simple as that.”

O’Ward is confirmed in the Arrow McLaren lineup for the 2027 IndyCar season alongside Scott Dixon and returning Swede Felix Rosenqvist. The 2027 campaign will be the final year of his current contract with the Zak Brown-led outfit, making it a pivotal season for the Monterrey native.

Financial motivation, he insisted, plays no part in his thinking. “I don’t need to be more famous. I don’t need more money. I’m already in a position that I never thought I would reach when I was younger. I am very fortunate.”

O’Ward’s candour closes what had been a long-running storyline in both IndyCar and F1 circles. For several seasons, speculation persisted that McLaren could eventually promote him to a grand prix seat, particularly given his test outings and his status as one of the most marketable drivers in American open-wheel racing. His public statement now makes clear that chapter is over on his own terms.