F1 EXPLAINS: What it’s like to switch between F1 and IndyCar – with McLaren racer Pato O’Ward

Formula 1 is known as the pinnacle of motorsport for a reason – it’s the height of racing technology, and there’s nothing quite like driving one of these cars. Even experienced racers like Pato O’Ward, who has thrived in IndyCar, can agree.

On the latest episode of F1 Explains, hosts Christian Hewgill and Katie Osborne spoke to the three-time race winner about how his time in IndyCar with Arrow McLaren compares with his experience as a reserve driver for McLaren’s F1 team.

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The 25-year-old driver had a taste of this generation of F1 cars at the Abu Dhabi post-season test in 2023 – he has also driven around the Red Bull Ring, Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya, and his home track at this season’s Mexico City Grand Prix.

O'ward is positioned perfectly to answer your questions in this episode about the similarities and differences between Formula 1 and IndyCar, drawing on his wealth of experience to explain how the cars, tracks and pit stops differ across the two series.

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This episode was recorded in F1 Garage – the exclusive hospitality experience in the Formula 1 pit lane. Find out more about F1 Garage and book your package here.

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F1 Explains is the official podcast which answers your questions about the sport. If there’s anything you’re curious about, you can send your question to F1Explains@F1.com.

To listen to the full episode, hit go on the audio player above – or click here to listen on your preferred podcasting platform.