Who Is Pato O’Ward? A Boxing, Cooking, Mexican Living Life On The Edge

NTT INDYCAR SERIES: Who Is Pato O’Ward?

Pato O’Ward is currently the most popular driver in INDYCAR. His international appeal and vibrant personality are truly infectious. For example, watching him milk a cow in Indianapolis leading up to the Indy 500 is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face.

So what drives Pato, who hails from Monterrey, Mexico? The Arrow McLaren driver has a passion for victory, having won two of the last three INDYCAR races. However, his love for speed extends beyond racing, as he embraces that thrill in various aspects of his life. O’Ward recently shared insights about himself during a conversation with FOX Sports ahead of his weekend win in Toronto.

Who is Pato O’Ward?

Pato O’Ward: I’m a 26-year-old Mexican racing driver for the esteemed brand McLaren. I’m enthusiastic about anything that gives me an adrenaline rush—cars, airplanes, motorcycles. My drink of choice? Tequila. I thrive on living life on the edge.

Pato O’Ward affectionately describes himself as the “Mexican-Irish guy.”

How would your friends describe you?

Unhinged. Definitely honest. Loyal. And you can always count on getting the truth from me—whether it’s a good or bad answer.

Do people still think you’re Irish?

Yes, sometimes! I’m the Mexican-Irish guy. People say I don’t look Mexican; apparently, I’m not tanned enough. I joke that it must be the Irish in me.

Your name is Patricio, not Patrick?

Correct! Patricio. My great-grandfather was named Patrick, and I’m the fourth in line. My dad is No. 3, so my child will be No. 5. It’s a family tradition!

And it’s your great-grandfather who was Irish?

Yes, he was the Irishman, sporting bright red hair—quite a true ginger.

You didn’t inherit any of that?

No, but I do have some ginger traits. If I let my beard grow, it definitely shows some red!

Do you still train with boxing?

Absolutely! I enjoy boxing immensely. I train in San Antonio with a fantastic coach I’ve known for over a decade. I started boxing in high school when I was trying to lose weight, and it remains my favorite workout due to its variety.

So if you got into a fight on the track, would that be illegal since you’re a boxer jili slots 777?

They say a boxer’s hands are considered weapons, but I wouldn’t quite classify myself at that level. Still, I think I could use the skills to my advantage!

Do you have a boxing bag at home?

I don’t have a heavy bag at home, but I’ve sparred with my cousins before. We’d move the cars out of the garage, set up a ring, and buy gloves and protective gear to have some fun.

Actually, I have a video from one time where I was worried my cousin was going to hurt himself because he was bent over; it was pretty funny!

What about McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown? Do you think he should see that?

He might not appreciate watching me get hit in the face. I definitely need to keep my face—and hands—safe!

And you’re a foodie, right?

Absolutely! Just yesterday, I dined at an amazing Mediterranean restaurant in Toronto called the Amal.

Can you cook?

I can cook! Don’t expect me to whip up homemade pasta sauce, but I can definitely prepare a great steak, quesadillas, tacos, and handmade tortillas. I make a mean guacamole, chicken, and rice. I’m eager to master a proper risotto someday, especially a truffle risotto, but for now, I stick to simple dishes.

Do you enjoy cooking? site iq

I love cooking! When I moved from my apartment to my house, I was thrilled at the thought of having my own kitchen without stinking up the place.

Cooks need patience, though. How do you manage that?

I struggle with following recipes because they can overwhelm me—kind of like my reaction to emails. I typically keep my replies short and simple. The issue here in America is they often complicate deliciously simple dishes. When I want something tasty made right, I prefer to cook it myself so I know exactly what’s going into it. I believe when you make your own meal, you appreciate it more. I tend to live in extremes; I’m either at 15,000 RPM or 3,000 RPM—never in the middle.

Which city has the best food on the circuit?

That’s a tough one! Toronto stands out as it’s incredibly multicultural. You can find amazing sushi, Mediterranean, Italian—literally everything! But if I had to pick another, Los Angeles also has great food options car made in philippines. For now, I’d go with Toronto.

And if Mexico City were in the mix, would it be No. 1?

Absolutely, Mexico City would be No. 1!

So if there’s any reason to head to Mexico City, is it for the food?

Fast race cars, rich culture, and fabulous food—definitely! Pato O’Ward is truly adored by fans.

How do you identify with Mexico and Mexico City, especially since you were born in Monterrey but grew up in San Antonio?

I spent the first 11 years of my life in Monterrey before moving to San Antonio, Texas. Even there, the Latin influence is strong, with many Mexicans living in San Antonio. No matter where I am in Mexico, it always feels like home to me—whether in Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Monterrey, or Mexico City. It resonates with my belief that home is about who you’re with rather than the location. What I miss most about my roots is the language, the food, and the wonderful people. Every vacation I plan frequently leads me back to the beaches of Mexico.

And the tequila is definitely better there?

Without a doubt! The tequila in Mexico is phenomenal. After enjoying a drink, I have my go-to recovery method with [sponsor drink] Electrolit to help me bounce back.

Bob Pockrass covers NASCAR and INDYCAR for FOX Sports. 8k8 com login password He has spent decades covering motorsports, including over 30 Daytona 500s, with experiences at ESPN, Sporting News, NASCAR Scene magazine, and The (Daytona Beach) News-Journal. Follow him on Twitter @bobpockrass.

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