UPDATE: McLaren driver Pato O’Ward has officially addressed swirling rumors about a potential move to the new Cadillac F1 team. In an interview with ESPN Mexico, O’Ward dismissed the speculation as “pure smoke,” emphasizing that there is no truth to the claims of him joining Cadillac for the upcoming season.
O’Ward, currently competing at a high level in IndyCar, has become a prominent figure in the motorsport community, particularly due to his impressive performances that have caught the attention of the Formula 1 paddock. As of now, he holds second place in the IndyCar standings with 437 points and has secured two race victories this season, including a stunning win in Toronto, which has reduced rival Alex Palou‘s lead to just 30 points.
In a candid moment, O’Ward commented on the Cadillac rumors, likening them to the unfounded speculation surrounding Fernando Alonso and pop star Taylor Swift. “I think that rumor of Cadillac, of me going to Cadillac, was like the rumor of Fernando Alonso hanging out with Taylor Swift,” he stated, underscoring the lack of evidence supporting such claims.
Despite the Cadillac F1 rumors, O’Ward remains firmly rooted with Arrow McLaren, under the McLaren Racing umbrella, where he has also served as a test and reserve driver for the Formula 1 team. He is scheduled to participate in another Free Practice 1 session in Mexico City on October 25, 2024, ahead of the upcoming F1 Grand Prix.
Reflecting on his racing aspirations, O’Ward shared insights into his long-term plans. “IndyCar is my home, it has been my home, and it feels like home. But just like IndyCar felt a bit alien five years ago, that’s what Formula One is to me now,” he explained. He emphasized the importance of seizing his current opportunities, aiming to win both the Indy 500 and an IndyCar championship before potentially transitioning to Formula 1.
With the season still underway and several races left, fans are eager to see how O’Ward’s journey unfolds in the coming months. As the motorsport world watches closely, the focus remains on his performance and future prospects within the competitive landscape of racing.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and for the latest F1 news, visit Newsweek Sports.
