IndyCar driver won't give up F1 dream: 'I'm keen to make the switch'

Pato O'Ward is still aiming for a switch from IndyCar to Formula 1. If he were to get a chance in the highest class of motorsport, the driver expects he could easily return to IndyCar afterwards.

O'Ward has a long-term contract with Arrow McLaren in IndyCar, but the Mexican driver still dreams of a spot in F1. In Abu Dhabi, he was allowed to take a seat in the McLaren during the first free practice session. However, with young drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, the seats at the British team are occupied for now. O'Ward sees himself as the team leader in America, but that does not mean he is giving up on his F1 dream.

Speaking to Racer.com O'Ward explains that he can always return to IndyCar should he be offered a seat in F1. After all, it is a lot easier to get into the American series, while F1 is very competitive.

From IndyCar to F1

" I love IndyCar racing, But I grew up watching Formula 1 and I grew up with the F1 dream as many other drivers around the world, and that’s what kind of opened my love to so many other categories. So I’m still very keen to make the switch to Formula 1. Will it happen? When will it happen? I have no idea, but I have a great team behind me", says O'Ward.

Fellow driver Alex Palou will probably get the chance to drive in the McLaren again in 2023 with his role as reserve driver. O'Ward is not sure whether he will also be allowed to drive the new car next season, also given his busy schedule. For now, the Mexican continues to dream about F1. "it’s a crazy world and doors you think will open won’t, things you don’t think will open will, or maybe both. Or maybe both don’t! What I’ve learned is you can’t plan anything, you can’t even plan to the year."