Long-serving McLaren driver admits: “I no longer want to drive in Formula 1”

It’s not often that racing drivers turn down a job in Formula 1, but that’s exactly what Patricio (Pato) O’Ward is doing. The 27-year-old Mexican is under contract to McLaren, primarily in the IndyCar Series (7 pole positions, 10 race wins, 33 podium finishes, runner-up in the 2025 championship), whilst also working as a GP reserve driver in case Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri are unable to race.

Now O’Ward, who took part in F1 practice sessions in Mexico and Abu Dhabi from 2022 to 2025, says on the Speed Street podcast: “I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve been able to gain in the world of Formula 1. Driving the Formula 1 cars, especially in recent years, has been incredible – just seeing what those racing cars are capable of. But I’m at a different stage in my life now, and it’s no longer that important to me.”

“I don’t feel any urge within me to continue working as a reserve driver in Formula 1. I’m doing brilliantly in IndyCar. I love this series. That’s where I want to be, and only there.”

O’Ward continued: “I’m not looking forward to driving a 2026 car, so I’ve politely asked to be relieved of all my duties in F1. I want to focus on my priority. I want to be able to train more, eat better and prepare better for 2027.”

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