Pato O'Ward 'Politely Asked to Be Fired' from McLaren F1 Reserve Role

McLaren reserve driver Pato O'Ward has asked to be released from his Formula 1 duties, closing the door on his long-held dream of racing in Grand Prix. The 27-year-old, who balanced F1 test and reserve obligations with his IndyCar career, said he no longer wants to be a backup and is fully committed to American open-wheel racing.

Why it matters:

O'Ward was long considered a credible candidate for a McLaren race seat after logging practice session miles and post-season tests since 2019. His exit leaves the team with a single reserve in FIA Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, and it underscores how the grind of F1 reserve duties can push drivers to prioritize stability elsewhere.

The details:

• Speaking on the Speed Street podcast, O'Ward explained that F1 testing over the last five years had denied him a real off-season, interfering with his physical preparation for IndyCar.
• While he described driving modern F1 cars as an "amazing experience," he conceded that he simply isn't excited by the machinery anymore and prefers the IndyCar paddock to the Formula 1 environment.
• O'Ward noted that he has already achieved more than he imagined as a child, saying he doesn't need additional fame or money to justify staying in the F1 program.
• The decision formally ends his ties to McLaren's F1 operation and removes the winter simulator burden that had long stretched his calendar.

What's next:

O'Ward will line up alongside two new teammates for the 2027 IndyCar season, with McLaren signing six-time champion Scott Dixon and reigning Indianapolis 500 winner Felix Rosenqvist to replace Christian Lundgaard and Nolan Siegel. O'Ward hailed Dixon as "the GOAT" and said he is thrilled to learn from the veteran, while also welcoming back close friend Rosenqvist. His immediate focus shifts to the IndyCar round in Nashville on July 20.