O'Ward seeks Indy 500 victory amid car setback
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INDIANAPOLIS — Pato O'Ward will attempt to win the Indianapolis 500 this Sunday after a string of near-misses at the Brickyard, including runner-up finishes in 2022 and 2024, a third place in 2025, a fourth in 2021 and a sixth as a 2020 rookie; he aims to become the race's first winner from Mexico.
O'Ward told reporters in Gasoline Alley this week that he wants to entertain and inspire fans, but his primary car — which had qualified sixth — was severely damaged in a Monday crash and he has been moved to a backup car, altering preparations as teams, broadcasters and officials finalize race-day plans for Sunday.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2020: O'Ward debuts at Indianapolis, finishing sixth as a rookie.
- 2. 2021: O'Ward records a fourth-place finish at the Indianapolis 500.
- 3. 2022: O'Ward finishes second at the Indianapolis 500 (runner-up).
- 4. 2023: O'Ward records a 24th-place finish, his only result outside the top five.
- 5. 2024–2025 and race week: O'Ward finished second in 2024 and third in 2025; his primary car qualified sixth but was damaged in a Monday crash, forcing a backup before Sunday’s race.
Why it matters
O'Ward's journey is a testament to resilience. His determination to win, despite setbacks, can inspire us to persevere through our own challenges. If you're a fan of motor racing, his quest for victory adds an extra layer of excitement to this Sunday's Indy 500.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
