Colton Herta Supports IndyCar Race in Mexico After Pato O’Ward’s Call for Committed Promoters
As the IndyCar Series gears up for its upcoming international race in Barcelona, there’s growing excitement about taking the American open-wheel series further abroad. This enthusiasm is especially strong among drivers themselves.
The idea of an IndyCar race in Mexico has been a topic of discussion for some time. Pato O’Ward, a popular driver from Monterrey and part of Arrow McLaren, has been vocal about the challenges faced in organizing a race in his home country. After the announcement of the Barcelona race during the Formula 1 event in Mexico, O’Ward criticized local promoters for lacking the passion and dedication needed to build the sport, suggesting that any Mexican event needs committed organizers rather than those seeking quick financial gains.
Colton Herta’s Take on the Mexico Race
When asked if IndyCar could thrive in Mexico despite these promotional obstacles, Colton Herta, a nine-time IndyCar winner and current Cadillac F1 test driver, expressed strong support. He emphasized O’Ward’s influence and the technical appeal of the track.
"A thousand percent," Herta said. "I think it could be just as popular. A big reason for that is Pato and his popularity here. I think the racing would be incredible here. It would be very interesting to see what an IndyCar could do around this track, especially with the curbing and curb profiles. With IndyCar, you can be a lot more aggressive with the curbs than in Formula 1."
At 26, Herta offers a unique perspective, balancing his deep roots in American open-wheel racing, with seven full-time IndyCar seasons, and his recent efforts bridging to Europe by competing in Formula 2 with Hitech and working within Cadillac’s F1 program. Fresh off his fifth Friday practice session in Mexico City, he is set for another practice at Interlagos to secure the last point he needs for his FIA Superlicense to race in F1.
Looking Ahead: IndyCar’s Growing International Presence
Reflecting on the series’ expanding global footprint and the new Barcelona race, Herta added:
"I think it would put on a great show. Barcelona is a really cool venue. It would be awesome if they could follow it up with a race here in Mexico."
