McLaren IndyCar driver Pato O'Ward has requested to be released from his Formula 1 reserve duties to concentrate fully on the IndyCar Series.
O'Ward shared his decision during an appearance on Conor Daly's Speed Street podcast, explaining that his priorities have shifted after participating in five free practice sessions for McLaren's F1 team.
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"I'm grateful for the experiences and all I've been able to learn in the world of F1," O'Ward said.
"But I think I'm in a different point in my life now, and I don't really care anymore."
The Mexican driver emphasized that he no longer desires a backup role in F1.
"There is nothing in me that is aching me to continue as a reserve in F1. I'm in a great place in IndyCar.
I love the series. That's where I want to be," he stated.
O'Ward noted that juggling roles across multiple series restricted his personal schedule and preparation.
"I have politely asked to be fired from all my services in F1," he said.
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"I want to be able to train more, eat better, and just prepare for 2027."
This stance aligns with his previous criticism of F1's technical regulations. O'Ward told FOX Deportes that modern overtaking mechanics feel artificial.
"You don't want to be flipping a switch to say, 'Oh, I'm going to press it to pass him artificially.'
It's not Mario Kart; we're racing here," he said.
He concluded that IndyCar offers superior pure competition.
"Formula 1 right now is an artificial show, and honestly, I have zero desire for it," O'Ward said.
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O'Ward remains under long-term contract with McLaren, having signed to race in the 2027 IndyCar season alongside Scott Dixon and Felix Rosenqvist.
