Pato O’Ward Ready for New Challenge from Indianapolis 500 Front Row

Pato O’Ward, driver of the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, will begin the Indianapolis 500 from the front row for the first time in his career. He is joined by rookie Robert Shwartzman and two-time Indy 500 winner Takuma Sato.

This marks a significant milestone for the 25-year-old Mexican driver, who has consistently performed well at the Indy 500 with two second-place finishes in the past two years, and several other top-six results.

“Being on the front row was a big objective I wanted to accomplish going into this month. This will be my sixth race, and we made it happen exactly where I wanted to be,” said O’Ward.

Hybrid System Brings New Technical Challenges

O’Ward also addressed the new hybrid system implemented this season, describing it as a challenge all drivers will need to manage carefully:

• Cars are more difficult to handle

• There’s a smaller margin for error

• A 100-pound weight shift to the rear affects balance

• Boost usage will become a key strategic element

“It’s been a smooth month. The car has been good in qualifying trim, but for the race we still have work to do. It’s a 500-mile race — many things can change,” he explained.

Penske Threat Still Looms Despite Rear Start

Although Team Penske drivers are starting from the back of the grid, O’Ward remains cautious. In particular, he expects Josef Newgarden — the reigning Indy 500 winner — to climb through the field quickly.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Josef is two-thirds through the field within the first 100 laps,” said O’Ward.

As he aims to capture his first-ever Indy 500 win, O’Ward knows that strategy, speed, and staying out of trouble will be key to surviving the grueling 500-mile race.