Pato O’Ward praised Brad Pitt following a video where the Hollywood actor openly discussed his passion for the IndyCar series during a chat with Dax Shepard. The 26-year-old driver appreciated Pitt’s sincere admiration for the American open-wheel racing category, highlighting the actor’s deepening connection to the sport.
In the video, which Pitt shared via Instagram through The Upshift, the 61-year-old actor described his motorsports journey that began with MotoGP, then shifted to Formula 1, and eventually found a special place in IndyCar racing. Pitt’s detailed reflections about IndyCar particularly struck a chord with O’Ward, prompting the Arrow McLaren racer to repost the video on his Instagram story with the caption: “Ya. He gets it.”
The Growing Appeal of IndyCar Among Celebrities
IndyCar’s fanbase has grown significantly, attracting attention from celebrities who frequently visit race paddocks to show their enthusiasm. Brad Pitt is among the prominent figures increasingly associated with motorsports, especially after his recent lead role in a new Formula 1 film. His visible fondness for the sport helps elevate IndyCar’s profile among a wider audience.
Meanwhile, O’Ward shifts focus back to his own racing performance following his 17th-place finish at the Grand Prix of Road America in Wisconsin. As the 2025 season progresses, the Mexican driver aims to improve results and build momentum in the IndyCar championship.
Pato O’Ward Featured in an In-Depth Indy 500 Documentary
In May 2025, FOX Sports unveiled a documentary highlighting the iconic Indy 500, featuring Pato O’Ward among the current crop of IndyCar drivers. The program aims to bring fans closer to the race through an intimate look at the drivers, team members, and officials who help make the event a success.
Titled Anything To Win, the documentary offers a more personal perspective compared to the familiar 100 Days to Indy series, focusing on the intricate preparations leading up to the famous race. O’Ward, who has come near victory at the Indy 500 twice—in 2022 and 2024—was eager to support the documentary’s launch.
Mixed Fortunes Mark O’Ward’s 2025 IndyCar Campaign
Despite strong qualifying efforts, including starting on the front row at the 2025 Indy 500, O’Ward finished third in the race, falling short of his hopes for victory. The season has been a combination of promising results and setbacks, as he currently ranks third in the Drivers’ Championship but has yet to secure a race win in 2025.
O’Ward’s last IndyCar triumph came at the 2024 Milwaukee Mile 250, illustrating the challenge he faces to return to the top step. Nonetheless, his steady position in the championship standings reflects his consistent competitiveness amid a demanding field of drivers.
IndyCar’s Rising Profile Through Cross-Industry Support
The involvement of high-profile figures like Brad Pitt underscores IndyCar’s growing reach beyond traditional motorsport circles. Having Hollywood stars demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for the series enriches the sport’s cultural footprint and helps connect it with new audiences worldwide.
For Pato O’Ward, endorsements from notable fans contribute positively to the sport’s visibility and highlight the passion shared by both drivers and followers. As the 2025 season unfolds, such support may foster greater recognition and excitement surrounding IndyCar racing.
