Danica Patrick's return to the broadcast booth for Sunday's historic IndyCar race in Washington, D.C., didn't sit well with a chunk of the fanbase. The 45-year-old former driver, who was part of FOX's 90-minute pre-race show, drew sharp criticism for her glowing remarks about the event and President Trump—leaving many viewers reaching for the remote.
Patrick, a trailblazer in open-wheel racing and the highest-finishing woman in Indianapolis 500 history, joined host Chris Myers and four-time Indy 500 champ Helio Castroneves for the special broadcast. The show, which aired live from the nation's capital, was packed with military tributes and political overtones, but it was Patrick's commentary that stole the spotlight—for all the wrong reasons, according to some fans.
During the broadcast, Patrick gushed over a military flyover, calling it "icing on the cake," and praised Washington, D.C., as "one of the most beautiful cities." She then singled out President Trump, crediting his executive order—along with FOX CEO Eric Shanks and Penske Corporation President Bud Denker—for making the race a reality. "I think it really embodies what it is to live in America, land of the free, and anything is possible," she said.
While some viewers appreciated the patriotic tone, others were less than thrilled. Social media lit up with complaints, with one fan writing, "To watch Danica Patrick and the whole Fox crew verbally felate Trump is nauseating." Another simply said, "Grossed out by this." The backlash wasn't limited to politics—several fans questioned her credentials, arguing that more accomplished drivers deserved the slot. "Nothing worse about an IndyCar broadcast than hearing Danica Patrick," one critic posted.
This isn't the first time Patrick has sparked online debate. She recently fired back at critics ahead of the D.C. broadcast, and her social media posts—from yoga pants vacation photos to a cowgirl-themed snap—have consistently drawn attention. Her outspoken views, including siding with Aaron Rodgers in his feud with Dr. Fauci, have made her a polarizing figure in the sports world.
The pre-race show was part of a landmark weekend for IndyCar, with the series making its first-ever visit to Washington, D.C., to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. The event also featured a surprise appearance by Melania Trump, who playfully mocked the media at the White House. The race itself, however, remained the main attraction, and Patrick's role was limited to the pre-race festivities—much to the relief of some fans.
Despite the backlash, Patrick's presence underscored the growing intersection of sports and politics, a trend that's become increasingly common in recent years. Whether fans love her or hate her, she knows how to get people talking—and Sunday was no exception.
