Pato O’Ward showcased surprising driving talent behind the wheel of a garbage truck in a fresh commercial promoting the NTT IndyCar Series. The advertisement debuted during the NFC championship game and highlighted O’Ward navigating a suburban neighborhood at high speed, demonstrating skills far from the usual racetrack setting.
An Intense Neighborhood Tour Set to Classic Rock
Set to the energetic tune of Dropkick Murphys’ “I’m Shipping Up to Boston,” the commercial features the Arrow McLaren driver speeding recklessly past mailboxes and scattered trash bins. Throughout the high-speed romp, O’Ward casually acknowledges enthusiastic fans seated on their lawns in Concord Acres, adding a lighthearted touch amid the chaos.
“He was born with his foot on the gas. @PatricioOWard and @INDYCAR return March 1 on FOX. pic.twitter.com/84GztQWrGO”
— INDYCAR on FOX (@IndyCarOnFOX)
The Creative Strategy Behind the Ad Campaign
This advertisement marks the second installment in Fox Sports’ ongoing IndyCar promotional series featuring drivers in unexpected, everyday scenarios. Last season’s campaign, which coincided with IndyCar’s transition from NBC to Fox, initiated this approach by placing well-known racers in surprising situations unrelated to competitive driving. O’Ward’s garbage truck ride continues this trend with an over-the-top version of a seemingly routine task.
Earlier, two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden appeared hosting a garden party, offering a glimpse of his personality away from the track. Narration hinted at hidden depths behind his neighborly façade, setting a pattern for these commercials to blend mundane chores with playful twists.
Purpose and Details of the Campaign Creation
Special US, the creative agency collaborating with Fox Sports on this series, intentionally juxtaposes each driver’s on-track image with unexpected lifestyle moments to engage fans on different levels. Dave Horton, Chief Creative Officer and partner at Special US, explained the concept:
“Each spot celebrates the on-track persona of the drivers to help introduce them to casual fans, while giving the hardcore fans rewarding easter eggs that nod to past seasons,”
Several subtle references enrich the spots — for instance, the Newgarden commercial included a hidden nod to his second Indy 500 victory through an expiration date displayed on a package of ground beef.
Upcoming Ads and the 2026 IndyCar Season Preview
As the 2026 IndyCar season opener on the streets of St. Petersburg approaches on March 1, Fox Sports plans to unveil two additional commercials. These will spotlight Will Power, newly affiliated with Andretti Global, and the reigning champion Alex Palou, who previously appeared in last year’s promotional campaign. This ongoing series aims to maintain excitement and deepen fan connection ahead of the racing season.
He was born with his foot on the gas. @PatricioOWard and @INDYCAR return March 1 on FOX. pic.twitter.com/84GztQWrGO
— INDYCAR on FOX (@IndyCarOnFOX) January 25, 2026
