Mexican racing driver Pato O’Ward has officially dismissed rumors about joining the Cadillac Formula 1 team in 2026, confirming he will remain focused on his IndyCar career. Although O’Ward is currently second in the IndyCar Series standings and highly regarded, he has made it clear that a transition to Cadillac F1 is not in his immediate plans.
O’Ward’s Playful Response to F1 Speculation
Speaking with ESPN Mexico, O’Ward humorously compared the persistent speculation around his F1 future to the widely circulated gossip about Fernando Alonso dating Taylor Swift. He said,
The rumors about me going to Cadillac were like the rumors about Fernando Alonso hanging out with Taylor Swift.
—Pato O’Ward, IndyCar Driver
Existing Connections to Formula 1 Highlighted
Despite rejecting the Cadillac F1 move, O’Ward’s link to Formula 1 is not insignificant. He has already taken part in Free Practice 1 sessions for McLaren at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix and is expected to continue as a reserve driver for the team. Nevertheless, his priority remains his current commitment to the IndyCar Series.
Cadillac F1 Team’s Driver Search Remains Open
Cadillac F1 team principal Graeme Lowdon has confirmed that the team is actively evaluating various candidates for their driver lineup. Among those considered are Mick Schumacher, Valtteri Bottas, and Sergio Perez. Discussions about adding an American driver, such as Colton Herta, are also reportedly ongoing.
Lowdon emphasized the team’s merit-based approach to driver selection, stating,
We’ll select drivers on merit… The team’s here to stay. I think the fans would love to see an American driver in an American team.
—Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1 Team Principal
Future Prospects and Anticipation in Motorsports
The competition for positions within Cadillac F1 is intense, and the final driver roster will reflect those who demonstrate the highest skill and potential. As the team prepares for its debut season, racing enthusiasts await announcements on who will represent the new American outfit on the Formula 1 grid.
Pato O’Ward’s firm decision to remain in IndyCar removes one possible high-profile candidate from Cadillac’s list, refocusing speculation on other drivers. The unfolding developments in Cadillac F1’s driver selections signal a pivotal moment for American motorsports as the premier racing category continues to expand its presence.
