After the 2025 IndyCar Detroit Grand Prix, Arrow McLaren driver Pato O’Ward openly criticized the challenging street circuit, calling it his worst IndyCar performance to date. The Mexican competitor expressed his dissatisfaction with the event held on Detroit’s tight and bumpy circuit along Jefferson Avenue and the Detroit River, despite managing to finish within the Top 10.
The Detroit GP takes place on a 1.6-mile circuit known for its compact layout, featuring numerous slow corners and a rough surface that makes driving difficult. This combination often results in many crashes and caution periods but also frustrates drivers due to the constant braking and the car’s instability on the bumps.
Detailed Review of Pato O’Ward’s Struggles Throughout the Race Weekend
O’Ward’s weekend started promisingly with a P7 finish in the initial practice session, but his fortunes declined in subsequent track time. The lack of pace became evident as he missed the Top 10 in the second practice, and his performance in qualifying was poor, placing him 18th on the starting grid after elimination in the first round.
During the race, O’Ward mostly remained under the radar, gradually gaining positions through strategic overtakes and effective pit stops. Multiple cautions and retirements aided his climb, enabling him to finish seventh despite his earlier difficulties. Notably, he led the race for three laps after the leaders made their tire changes but couldn’t maintain a higher position due to overall car performance.
O’Ward Describes the Detroit Circuit as a Major Challenge
“It’s been the worst performance weekend I’ve probably ever had in IndyCar. We legit qualified 18 just on pure pace. We’ve had others the times where we’ve been back there, but it’s always been because of an issue or made a mistake here and there, but this one was truly that’s where we deserve to be.” —Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren Driver
“It’s been a very frustrating weekend. You guys know, I don’t sugarcoat it, I hate this place. It sucks. It’s a horrible track. I really miss Belle Isle. You get to really appreciate what an IndyCar can do in Belle Isle. Here, you’re just Mickey mousing around the whole time. It’s just been very challenging. So I’m glad that it’s over.” —Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren Driver
O’Ward’s remarks expressed both his disappointment in the team’s pace and his personal dislike for the Detroit street circuit, highlighting a preference for the former Belle Isle layout where driver skills and car capabilities could better shine.
Impact on O’Ward and Arrow McLaren Moving Forward
This poor weekend performance reflected difficulties adapting to the street circuit’s demanding conditions, emphasizing the need for the Arrow McLaren team to improve qualifying pace and car setup on such bumpy, twisty tracks. Despite his criticism, O’Ward gained valuable championship points with his seventh-place finish, preventing further damage to his standings.
His candid views on the Detroit GP may influence future discussions about track design and race venues in IndyCar, especially considering driver feedback regarding safety and race quality. For now, O’Ward and his team will likely focus on analyzing this event in detail as they prepare for upcoming races on more driver-friendly circuits.
