Pato O’Ward closes door on Formula 1 as IndyCar becomes his clear priority

O’Ward moves on from the Formula 1 question

Pato O’Ward says the recurring speculation over a possible move to Formula 1 can now stop. Speaking on Conor Daly’s Speed Street podcast, the Arrow McLaren IndyCar driver made clear that a future in F1 is no longer part of his personal or professional agenda.

“I’m grateful for the experiences and everything I’ve learned in the world of Formula 1. And obviously, driving those cars, especially in recent years, has been an incredible experience, just feeling what they are capable of,” O’Ward said.

“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,” he added.

IndyCar over the F1 waiting game

O’Ward’s position is striking because it rejects the traditional pull of Formula 1 status. Rather than chasing the visibility and prestige attached to the championship, he framed IndyCar as the environment that gives him what he values most: racing.

He also indicated that the current generation of Formula 1 cars does not appeal to him, saying he is not excited to drive one and has asked to be released from his Formula 1 services. His comments land amid broader criticism of F1’s current machinery, a subject also reflected in recent driver concerns such as Fernando Alonso’s criticism of the 2026 F1 rules.

For O’Ward, the equation is now simple. “It is the best place for more racing. Simple as that. I think many may have a different opinion. But for me, that’s where I’m happy.”

A defining 2027 ahead

O’Ward is confirmed as part of McLaren’s 2027 IndyCar line-up alongside newcomer Scott Dixon and Felix Rosenqvist, who returns to the squad. That season carries particular weight for the Monterrey native, as it will be the final year of his current contract with the Zak Brown-led team.

The decision also reflects his established position in the American series. The source material notes that O’Ward already enjoys a major McLaren contract and is among IndyCar’s most recognized and commercially popular drivers.

“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,” he said.

In Formula 1 terms, it is a rare public refusal of the ladder. For O’Ward, the destination is no longer Europe’s grand stage. It is the championship where he feels fulfilled, valued and fully committed.