McLaren IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward has abandoned his Formula 1 ambitions, citing the 2026 technical regulations as the reason for his decision. The Mexican driver, who serves as McLaren F1’s reserve and has competed in five practice sessions for the team, delivered a scathing assessment of the new cars in an interview with FOX Deportes.
According to GPFans, O’Ward’s criticism centers on the 2026 power unit regulations, which split the balance between combustion engine and electric power to an almost equal 50-50 split. The new rules introduce an ‘Overtake Mode’ that provides extra boost during overtaking maneuvers, a system O’Ward views as artificial.
Manufactured Racing
O’Ward did not mince words when explaining his change of heart. “The hunger I had to reach Formula 1 wasn’t about fame or money, it was because the cars were truly impressive. Driving them was something special,” he said. “Every year, the sport changes even more. Honestly, the new Formula 1 cars and what the series has become are a mistake. When you look at them, they just feel manufactured.”
The nine-time IndyCar race winner reserved his harshest criticism for the electronic boost system central to the 2026 regulations. “I don’t want to press a button to artificially pass someone. This isn’t Mario Kart, we’re here to race,” O’Ward said. “I have no desire to be part of that world. I believe IndyCar is currently the best series for a driver who truly wants to race. Formula 1 has turned into an artificial show, and frankly, it no longer appeals to me.”
Part of a Broader Critique
O’Ward joins a growing list of drivers and observers critical of the 2026 regulations. Max Verstappen has previously described aspects of the new rules as ‘anti-racing,’ while fans have voiced concerns that the sport has become too artificial. The 2026 cars feature a major overhaul with new chassis designs, active aerodynamics, and the heavily revised power units that have drawn O’Ward’s ire.
The Mexican driver’s path to F1 appeared viable as recently as last year. As McLaren’s reserve driver, he maintained close ties to the F1 operation while competing full-time in IndyCar. His track record included strong showings in practice sessions and consistent performance in American open-wheel racing. That door is now firmly closed, at least while the current regulations remain in force.
Herta Moves in Opposite Direction
O’Ward’s exit from F1 consideration contrasts sharply with the trajectory of his former IndyCar rival Colton Herta. The American driver is competing in Formula 2 this season to gather the final five super license points required for F1 competition. Herta has four scheduled test sessions with Cadillac, the new 11th team entering F1 in 2026, and hopes strong F2 performances will secure him a permanent seat for 2027.
The diverging paths of O’Ward and Herta underscore the split opinions on F1’s current direction. While O’Ward sees an artificial product that no longer appeals to drivers seeking pure racing, Herta remains committed to reaching the sport despite the regulatory changes that have alienated his compatriot.
O’Ward will continue his IndyCar campaign with McLaren’s Arrow McLaren operation, while the F1 series heads to Miami for the next round of the 2026 championship on May 2-4.