On August 6, Mexican IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward addressed the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) controversial social media post promoting their ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) campaign. The communication, posted on the platform X, spotlighted plans for a new detention center in Indiana, sparking discussion due to its unusual imagery.

The DHS shared an AI-generated image depicting a modern IndyCar chassis racing on a track with a detention facility visible in the background. This campaign‘s title, “The Speedway Slammer,” clearly drew inspiration from Indiana’s renowned Indianapolis Motor Speedway. What drew significant attention was the car’s number 5 sporting an ICE-themed design, resembling Pato O’Ward’s race car.

Concerns Raised Over the Use of Pato O’Ward’s Car Number in ICE Campaign

The number 5 is famously associated with O’Ward, the sole Mexican driver in the current IndyCar season, which led to questions about the reasoning behind including this specific imagery in the DHS post. O’Ward, who was participating in a Texas Rangers and New York Yankees game by throwing the ceremonial pitch at Globe Life Field on the same day, reacted publicly to the unexpected use of his racing number in connection with the detention facility advertisement.

“It caught a lot of people off guard. Definitely caught me off guard. I was just a little bit shocked at the coincidences of that and, you know, of what it means. … I don’t think it made a lot of people proud, to say the least,” said Pato O’Ward. (via AP News)

O’Ward also shared that he only became aware of the post after a friend brought it to his attention and expressed reluctance to investigate the issue further, stating,

“I haven’t really read into it too much because I don’t think I want to.”

Following the backlash, IndyCar officials issued a statement clarifying that the organization had no prior knowledge or consented to the use of IndyCar-related imagery in the DHS campaign. They emphasized their preference to protect their intellectual property from unauthorized use in the future.

In response, DHS denied any infringement, asserting in a statement,

“Any suggestion to the contrary is absurd. DHS will continue promoting the ‘Speedway Slammer’ as a comprehensive and collaborative approach to combating illegal immigration.”

Pato O’Ward’s Participation in Yankees vs. Rangers Game to Highlight Upcoming Arlington Grand Prix

On the same day as the DHS controversy unfolded, Pato O’Ward enthusiastically engaged with fans during the Texas Rangers versus New York Yankees baseball game at Globe Life Field. This event coincided with the ticket release for the inaugural Arlington Grand Prix, scheduled to debut on the IndyCar calendar next year.

O’Ward’s involvement included a meet and greet session and the ceremonial first pitch. Reflecting on the upcoming race, he expressed his excitement about returning to Texas circuits.

“I’m so excited to be racing in Texas again, and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES is going to put on a show in Arlington that you won’t want to miss.”

“It’s going to be a party. Partnering with the Dallas Cowboys and REV Entertainment (the official sports and entertainment partner of the Texas Rangers) is huge, and it will set the standard for how every INDYCAR race weekend should be for the teams and the fans. March can’t come soon enough,” added Pato O’Ward. (via IndyCar)

The Arlington Grand Prix will take place from March 13 to 15 on a 2.73-mile temporary street circuit designed specifically for the event, marking a significant addition to the IndyCar schedule and the growing motorsport scene in Texas.

Implications of the DHS Campaign and the Ongoing Relationship with IndyCar

The use of motor racing imagery by DHS sparked immediate concern among the IndyCar community, especially given its association with a prominent Mexican driver amid sensitive immigration debates. O’Ward’s reaction highlights the complexities that arise when sports symbols intersect with political messaging. IndyCar’s formal objection underlines the importance of protecting intellectual property and athlete representation from unintended affiliations.

Looking ahead, the controversy may prompt federal agencies to exercise greater caution when incorporating recognizable cultural or sports imagery into public campaigns. Meanwhile, fans and teams alike anticipate the Arlington Grand Prix as a fresh milestone for IndyCar, promising a vibrant celebration of racing that unites local sports partners and communities.