Patricio “Pato” O’Ward has officially brought his Formula 1 chapter with McLaren to an end, choosing instead to dedicate himself fully to Arrow McLaren’s IndyCar project. The Mexican driver explained that, after several years of reserve duties and Formula 1 appearances, he no longer feels motivated to pursue a future in the F1 paddock.
Arrow McLaren’s 2027 IndyCar lineup
Arrow McLaren has been one of the biggest talking points in the IndyCar driver market in recent days after confirming the signings of Scott Dixon and Felix Rosenqvist, who will join Patricio O’Ward in the team’s 2027 lineup.
At the same time, O’Ward was also confirmed as one of Arrow McLaren’s full-time drivers in the American championship. That contract renewal prompted the 27-year-old to make an important career decision regarding his future in Formula 1.
Goodbye to Formula 1
After taking part in several Formula 1 tests and official Free Practice 1 sessions since 2024, O’Ward has officially decided to leave Formula 1 behind and focus exclusively on Arrow McLaren’s IndyCar programme.
The Mexican driver confirmed the decision during Conor Daly’s Speed Street podcast, explaining that he is no longer interested in pursuing Formula 1 opportunities.
“I’m grateful for the experiences and everything I’ve learned in Formula 1,” O’Ward said. “Driving those cars, especially over the last few years, has been an incredible experience just to feel what they’re capable of. I think I’m in a different place in my life now, and I just don’t care anymore. There’s nothing inside me that pushes me to continue as a Formula 1 reserve driver because I’m in a great place in IndyCar. I love this category. It’s where I want to be.”
That conviction led O’Ward to personally approach McLaren’s headquarters in Woking and ask to be released from his Formula 1 commitments while remaining part of the Arrow McLaren organisation based in Indianapolis.
“At the moment, I’m not excited about driving one anymore, so I kindly asked to be relieved of all my Formula 1 duties. It’s the best place to race more. Simple as that. I know a lot of people may have a different opinion, but for me, that’s where I’m happy.”
O’Ward summed up his decision to leave Formula 1 and remain in IndyCar with one final statement:
“I don’t need to become more famous. I don’t need more money. I’m already in a position I never thought I’d reach when I was younger. I’m very fortunate.”
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