Pato O’Ward: Mexico’s Racing Sensation Making Waves at the Indy 500

From the streets of Monterrey to the front row at Indianapolis, Pato O’Ward carries the hopes of a nation on his journey to racing glory.

Mexico’s Pride on the Starting Grid

As the engines roar to life at the 109th Indianapolis 500 this weekend, one driver stands out not just for his remarkable speed, but for the passionate wave of green, white, and red flags that follow him around the circuit. Patricio “Pato” O’Ward, the 26-year-old sensation from Monterrey, Mexico, has secured his first-ever front row start at the historic race, qualifying third with a blistering four-lap average of 232.098 mph in his No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet.

For O’Ward, this achievement represents more than just a good starting position—it’s another milestone in his quest to become the first Mexican driver to win the prestigious Indy 500, a victory that would resonate deeply throughout his homeland.

Monterrey Roots: The Making of a Champion

Born in Monterrey, Mexico in 1999, O’Ward’s racing journey began at the tender age of six when he first sat behind the wheel of a go-kart. His grandfather had given him his first kart when he was just three years old, sparking a passion that would define his life. As a child, O’Ward spent countless hours practicing at the Rio Santa Catarina karting tracks in his hometown, developing the skills that would later make him one of IndyCar’s most exciting talents.

“I’m full-blown Mexican,” O’Ward proudly states, despite his Irish surname that comes from his great-grandfather. This pride in his heritage has been a driving force throughout his career, giving him the determination to succeed on the international stage.

Carrying the Torch for Mexican Motorsport

O’Ward understands the significance of his role in Mexican motorsport history. He follows in the footsteps of legendary Mexican drivers who paved the way in American open-wheel racing. Names like Héctor Rebaque, Josele Garza, Adrian Fernandez, and Michel Jourdain Jr. created a legacy that O’Ward now builds upon.

“I think I’m filling a void that was empty for a lot of years,” O’Ward has reflected. “Decades ago, multiple Mexican drivers were active, and then there was a long time when there wasn’t anybody here.”

This awareness of his position as Mexico’s standard-bearer in IndyCar has only strengthened his connection with fans. At each race, throngs of supporters arrive wearing his merchandise and waving Mexican flags, creating a vibrant atmosphere that energizes the young driver.

The McLaren Connection: Racing on Two Fronts

O’Ward’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed beyond IndyCar. As part of the McLaren Driver Development Program, he serves as a reserve driver for the Formula 1 team, having earned his FIA Super License in 2023. This dual role has allowed him to showcase his abilities on multiple global stages.

In October 2024, during the Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix weekend, O’Ward demonstrated just how powerful his star has become. When a sponsor arranged a meet-and-greet at a Mexico City mall, they expected about 120 fans. Instead, more than 3,000 people packed the building, with another thousand outside, creating scenes reminiscent of a rock concert rather than a racing driver appearance.

These “Patties” (as his fans call themselves, similar to Taylor Swift’s “Swifties”) have created a movement around their hero that challenges the notion that O’Ward isn’t marketable enough to justify an IndyCar race in Mexico—an idea that prompted O’Ward to lease a billboard near Indianapolis Motor Speedway reading “Pato Who?” in response.

Eyes on the Prize: The 2025 Indianapolis 500

Now, as O’Ward prepares for his sixth Indy 500 appearance, he carries the momentum of his strong qualifying performance. With two previous runner-up finishes in the last three years at the Brickyard, O’Ward knows he has the pace and the team to challenge for victory.

“We’ve had a quick car all month, and we’re going to continue to have it in the race,” O’Ward said after qualifying. “We’re going to keep working on that and see what we can make happen.”

His third-place grid position puts him on the outside of the front row alongside pole-sitter Robert Shwartzman and two-time Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato—exactly the view he had envisioned and told his family about beforehand.

More Than a Driver: A Cultural Ambassador

Beyond his racing achievements, O’Ward embraces his role as a cultural bridge. His favorite foods—chilaquiles and sushi—reflect his appreciation for both his Mexican roots and his global lifestyle. When not racing, he enjoys karting, fitness training (especially boxing), and exploring new culinary experiences.

This authentic connection to his heritage, combined with his natural charisma and talent behind the wheel, has made O’Ward one of the most marketable personalities in motorsport. His social media following continues to grow, creating new fans for both himself and IndyCar.

The Road Ahead

As the green flag drops on Sunday, O’Ward knows that millions of eyes in Mexico will be watching his every move around the 2.5-mile oval. A victory would not only cement his place in racing history but would likely accelerate plans for IndyCar to return to Mexico City in 2026—a homecoming that would be a crowning achievement for the boy from Monterrey who dreamed of racing glory.

Whether he’s challenging for victories in IndyCar or testing Formula 1 machinery for McLaren, Pato O’Ward carries the spirit of Mexico with him. In his own words: “I’m proud to be Mexican and represent my country on the world stage. I want to make Mexico proud.”

This Sunday at Indianapolis, he’ll have his best chance yet to do exactly that.