Danica Patrick turned heads at the 2026 Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, but not everyone was impressed. The former racing star, who served as a key part of FOX's broadcast team for the iconic event, wore a striking one-shoulder red dress that quickly became a hot topic on social media. While some praised her confidence, others were far less kind, accusing her of dressing more for a nightclub than a race track.
Patrick, a trailblazer for women in motorsports with successful stints in both IndyCar and NASCAR, has faced similar criticism before. Last year, her checkerboard-style outfit at the same event drew sharp comments. This time, fans took to X to voice their displeasure, with one user comparing her to Ashley Judd's infamous worst-dressed moment at the Indy 500. Another wrote, "I've been a fan of Danica since the Letterman days. Why does she have to dress so ridiculously? Doesn't she have anyone in her life to say 'that's really over the top for race coverage?'" A third added, "Danica Patrick looks ridiculous. She's dressed like she's going clubbing instead of the Indy 500."
The backlash was swift and widespread, with many questioning whether her outfit was appropriate for a professional broadcast role. Patrick has not publicly responded to the criticism, but the controversy has reignited debates about the scrutiny female sports figures face over their appearance. This isn't the first time Patrick has been in the spotlight for her fashion choices; she previously faced criticism for her role as a broadcaster at the event as well.
Beyond the fashion drama, Patrick made headlines earlier this year when she announced she would not return to SkySports' Formula 1 coverage. In a statement, she expressed gratitude for her five-year stint with the network, saying, "From my first Sky Sports F1 race in Austin to my last 5 years later… I had such a blast! The Sky team was so much fun, I saw so many amazing new race tracks and cities, and got to be part of a huge boom in F1!" She added that she decided to step away after the 2025 season, noting, "I called after the last race in 2025 and said it was time for me to move on and I was so grateful for the opportunity." She now plans to watch the 2026 F1 season as a fan, glued to her TV.
Patrick continues to cover IndyCar and NASCAR, but her future in broadcasting remains a topic of interest. The 2026 Indy 500 itself delivered a thrilling finish, with Felix Rosenqvist taking the checkered flag in one of the closest races in the event's history. The race was a showcase of skill and strategy, but for many, the conversation kept circling back to Patrick's outfit.
This incident echoes broader trends in sports media, where female personalities often face heightened scrutiny over their attire. Similar backlash has hit other sports figures, such as a golf influencer who defended her Masters outfit against critics. Patrick, however, has not yet addressed the latest wave of criticism, leaving fans to speculate whether she will respond or let the controversy fade.
As the dust settles on another Indy 500, Patrick's bold fashion statement has ensured she remains a central figure in the conversation—whether fans love it or hate it.
