The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most celebrated events in motorsports, but this year's broadcast has ignited a firestorm of criticism aimed squarely at one of its lead analysts. Danica Patrick, the former IndyCar and NASCAR driver who shattered barriers during her racing career, is serving as a main analyst for FOX's pre-race coverage on Sunday. And a significant portion of the fanbase is not happy about it.
Patrick, who retired from full-time racing in 2018, has carved out a second act in broadcasting. However, her on-air style has long been a polarizing topic among racing enthusiasts. This weekend, the backlash has reached a boiling point, with some viewers openly calling for a boycott of the broadcast.
Fans Voice Their Frustration
Social media lit up Sunday morning as fans aired their grievances. One user wrote, "Every Indy500, I’m reminded how much of a loser Danica Patrick is." Another questioned FOX's decision, asking, "Did FOX have to invite Danica? After she got booted from @f1. She is horrible on tv."
The criticism wasn't limited to words alone; some viewers took action. "Turned on FOX and then immediately turned the channel when I saw Danica," one fan shared. Another echoed the sentiment: "Wanted to watch the Indy 500 pre-race show. Saw Danica Patrick, turned off the TV. She just totally unlikable."
This isn't the first time Patrick's broadcasting role has drawn ire. Earlier this year, IndyCar fans sounded off after she was dubbed the "most disliked" figure in the sport, a title that continues to fuel debate.
A Recent TV Departure
Patrick's prominent role at the Indy 500 comes just months after she parted ways with Sky Sports' Formula 1 coverage. In a statement, she explained, "From my first Sky Sports F1 race in Austin to my last 5 years later… I had such a blast! I called after the last race in 2025 and said it was time for me to move on."
Despite leaving that gig, Patrick remains a fixture in major racing broadcasts. Her continued presence at the Brickyard has only intensified the scrutiny, with some fans questioning why FOX would give her such a central role.
Mixed Reactions and a Divided Audience
Not all fans are opposed to Patrick's involvement. She still commands a loyal following who appreciate her insights and historic contributions to the sport. At 44, Patrick recently stunned fans with her toned physique ahead of the broadcast, a reminder of her enduring star power.
Yet the negative reactions have been loud and persistent. "Oh we’re still giving Danica Patrick a platform? Ew," one user posted. Another wrote, "I turned my TV off as soon as I saw Danica Patrick."
The divide highlights a broader tension in motorsports media: how to balance star power with viewer sentiment. For now, Patrick remains a central voice in the Indy 500 coverage, but the fan backlash suggests her role may continue to be a flashpoint for years to come.
