Danica Patrick praised for Indy 500 expertise highlighted FOX’s coverage of the 109th running on May 25, as commentator Will Buxton publicly commended her insight and poise in the broadcast booth. The event brought Patrick, Buxton, and driver-turned-analyst Townsend Bell together, marking Buxton’s debut at the legendary race, with Patrick’s support adding notable depth to the live commentary.
Having covered the Indianapolis 500 since 2019, Danica Patrick made her transition to the FOX team, coinciding with the network’s preparation to become the exclusive broadcaster for the series starting in 2025. Patrick lent her expertise to both the qualifying rounds (May 17-18) and the race itself, drawing on her incredible history as both an IndyCar and NASCAR driver.
Reflecting on the experience, Will Buxton, who had never called the Indy 500 before, spoke on the Divebomb IndyCar podcast about his appreciation for Patrick’s presence.
“I loved working with Danica, by the way,” he said. “She was so gracious and so at ease being back in the IndyCar world, and it was lovely to see that side of her, that really knowledgeable and experienced side of Danica. Honestly, I loved working with her. She was great fun.”
—Will Buxton, FOX Play-by-Play Commentator
Public and Expert Opinions Diverge on Patrick’s Role
While Will Buxton expressed admiration for Patrick’s skills and approach, her inclusion in the FOX broadcast drew mixed reactions from racing fans. Some viewers remained critical, recalling controversial remarks Patrick made as a Formula 1 analyst on Sky Sports. Nevertheless, Patrick’s legacy as a driver endures: she claimed the IndyCar Series Most Popular Driver award six consecutive times from 2005 to 2010, earning her a loyal following within the motorsports community.
Patrick’s trailblazing career set new milestones for women in American open-wheel racing—including a memorable podium finish at the Indy 500 in 2009 and a groundbreaking race victory at the Indy Japan 300 in 2008, both achieved while competing for Andretti Autosport.
Patrick Reflects on Lifelong Ties to the Indianapolis 500
During FOX’s broadcast, Danica Patrick opened up about her connection to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Early in the race day coverage, she shared an emotional account of her childhood memories and how witnessing her first Indy 500 at just 14 years old left a profound impact.
“It’s just been a part of my life my whole life. I remember being a kid and watching it on TV sitting around on the couch and got our chips and dip out. I might have taken a nap back in those days, being a little bit younger, but it’s been a part of my life forever.
—Danica Patrick, Analyst and Former Driver
“And then I finally came here when I was 14 years old in 1996. I was way down there at the exit of turn four in one of those suites. That was the year that it was a rain delay. So we sat around and played cards. All of us kids. And a race the next day. After being here and seeing that, I couldn’t wait to race in the actual race,” she added.
—Danica Patrick, Analyst and Former Driver
Patrick’s professional debut in the IndyCar Series and at the Indianapolis 500 came in 2005 with Rahal Letterman Racing. She qualified in fourth position and impressively led the famed race for a total of 19 laps. Although she had to reduce her pace to conserve fuel and ultimately finished fourth, her performance marked a record-setting effort for a female competitor at the event. Patrick bettered this result four years later by reaching the podium in 2009.
Her competitive racing career concluded in 2018, following final starts at both the Daytona 500 and her beloved Indy 500, solidifying her legacy as a pioneering athlete across motorsports.
What Patrick’s Broadcast Role Means for IndyCar Coverage
FOX’s decision to add Danica Patrick to its broadcasting lineup illustrates the network’s commitment to expertise and star power ahead of acquiring exclusive rights in 2025. Her unique experiences—as a child fan, top-level driver, and now analyst—infuse the coverage with historical perspective and authenticity. Addressing both adulation from peers like Will Buxton and scrutiny from parts of the audience, Patrick remains a pivotal figure as public memories of her racing achievements continue to inspire.
Patrick’s transition to broadcasting spotlighted her adaptability, while Buxton’s compliments emphasized her importance to the 2024 coverage. As FOX prepares for its future as the main voice of IndyCar racing, Patrick’s role is likely to continue evolving, shaping how new and longtime fans alike experience classic events like the Indianapolis 500.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Danica Patrick’s diagnosis?
A. In a recent Instagram story, well-known NASCAR driver Danica Patrick shared her experience with breast implant illness. She was diagnosed after undergoing numerous tests. Her symptoms included irregular menstrual cycles and weight gain. Tests also revealed she had heavy metal toxicity, leaky gut, and thyroid problems.
