Mexican driver Pato O'Ward, a McLaren driver in the IndyCar Series, revealed that competing in the Formula 1 World Championship no longer represents a dream for him, asking the team management to relieve him of his duties as a reserve driver. O'Ward explained in the 'Speed Street' podcast that he is grateful for the opportunity he had in Formula 1, indicating that he has reached a different stage in his career, saying: "I don't really care about it anymore, I no longer have that strong motivation to continue as a reserve driver in Formula 1. I am in a very special position in IndyCar, I love this championship, and this is where I want to be. And looking at the current shape of Formula 1 cars, I'm not excited to drive one, so I politely asked to be relieved of those duties, I want to focus on my priorities and enjoy my life." The Mexican driver added: "I realize I was not a regular driver there, but I got enough of an idea about the nature of the Formula 1 world, and I honestly think it doesn't suit me. It is not a place where I felt more enjoyment than I feel in IndyCar. I know that Formula 1 is always placed at the top of the pyramid, but just because the dish looks golden does not mean its content is better." O'Ward has participated in five free practice sessions with McLaren, the current Formula 1 world champion, since 2022. The Mexican driver has 10 wins in IndyCar, the most recent being the Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course earlier this week, where Arrow McLaren team achieved a 1-2 finish with his Danish teammate Christian Lundgaard. His stay with the team has also been confirmed for the 2027 season alongside New Zealander Scott Dixon, a six-time IndyCar champion, and Swede Felix Rosenqvist, winner of the 2026 Indianapolis 500. McLaren also includes Italian Leonardo Fornaroli, the Formula 2 champion, on its list of reserve drivers.