Pato O’Ward says the differences in working practices in Formula 1 and IndyCar take a lot of time to adjust to and should not be underestimated.
The Arrow McLaren star has taken part in a number of tests in F1 machinery and most recently ran in FP1 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as well as the post-race test. While trying to work his way towards a potential future seat in F1, and having seen comments that Logan Sarge ant’s status in the United States is impacted by his pathway through European racing
“It takes time to adjust to the different way of working and the different atmosphere in a Formula 1 paddock,” O’Ward tells RACER. “The atmosphere in a Formula 1 paddock compared to an IndyCar paddock is so different. It is definitely a lot more business-oriented in Formula 1, and IndyCar to me right now definitely is what home is.
“IndyCar is my home and coming to the Formula 1 weekends I sometimes still feel a bit like an outsider. Which has been getting better as I learn more and as I just put myself into situations that I’ve never been before, but it takes time — it doesn’t happen from one day to another.
“So it definitely takes time to adjust to, but I don’t agree that because wasn’t in the American ranks he’s not well known. All these other guys also grew up in Europe but they’re very well known in America. I don’t think it matters if your upbringing was in America.
“To be fairly honest with you, a lot of Americans have no idea what IndyCar is. So I really don’t think it makes a difference. I think it usually speaks to results. I guarantee you, as soon as he starts laying down some really strong results that recognition is going to go from what it is now to multiple by 50 overnight.