Pato O’Ward’s number was controversially featured in an image released by the Department of Homeland Security, sparking significant backlash from IndyCar fans.
Controversial Announcement
The image coincided with the announcement of a new U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Indiana, which officials referred to as the “Speedway Slammer,” a nod to the renowned Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Accompanying the announcement, Homeland Security shared an image on X that drew ire from the IndyCar community. The image depicted a car racing in front of what appeared to be a prison-style building. Some have speculated that the image was AI-generated.
Connection to Pato O’Ward
Notably, the car in the image displayed the number #5 on the rollhoop, which belongs to Mexican driver Pato O’Ward. In response to the backlash, IndyCar distanced itself from the image, stating, “We were unaware of plans to incorporate our imagery as part of today’s announcement. Consistent with our approach to public policy and political issues, we are communicating our preference that our IP not be utilized moving forward in relation to this matter.”
DHS Response
Officials from the Department of Homeland Security dismissed claims of intellectual property infringement. “An AI-generated image of a car with ‘ICE’ on the side does not violate anyone’s intellectual property rights,” a DHS statement read. “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 Reaction
O’Ward expressed that he was unaware of the image until a friend informed him. “It caught a lot of people off guard. Definitely caught me off guard,” he told the Associated Press. “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. I haven’t really read into it too much because I don’t think I want to.”
Upcoming Races
IndyCar continues its season at Portland on Monday, August 11 (AEST), with the possibility of Alex Palou clinching the series title with two races left to run. Palou currently leads O’Ward in the standings.
The Speedway Slammer 🏁 pic.twitter.com/fXlTgWW8jA — Homeland Security (@DHSgov) August 5, 2025