Danica Patrick has come under intense criticism following FOX Sports’ announcement that she will co-anchor the broadcast of the 2025 Indianapolis 500 alongside Tony Stewart. The network revealed on May 15, 2025, that Patrick and Stewart would join veteran broadcaster Chris Myers in the secondary booth for FOX’s inaugural coverage of the iconic race. While Stewart’s return has been widely welcomed by motorsports fans, Patrick’s involvement has sparked a polarized and often hostile reaction from viewers and industry observers alike.
FOX’s broadcast lineup aims to blend racing expertise with media star power. Danica Patrick brings a historic racing resume as the first woman to win an IndyCar race and holding the best-ever finish by a female driver at the Indy 500. Tony Stewart, a 1997 IndyCar champion and three-time NASCAR Cup Series winner, offers deep technical insight and a strong fan following. The broadcast team also features NFL personalities Michael Strahan and Rob Gronkowski, contributing to a star-studded event presentation. However, despite this impressive roster, many fans have expressed dissatisfaction specifically with Patrick’s role in the booth.
On social media and racing forums, criticism of Patrick’s broadcasting skills is widespread. Viewers accuse her of lacking preparation and failing to provide insightful analysis. Some highlight previous broadcasting stints where Patrick made factual errors, such as confusing race winners or missing key race details. One viral social media post sarcastically suggested that someone attend the Indy 500 in a lizard suit just to stand behind her on pit road, illustrating the harshness of fan sentiment. Critics also recall her struggles on CBS’s SRX broadcasts and Sky Sports F1 coverage, where she was perceived as underprepared and occasionally disengaged.
This backlash is not new. Since transitioning from racing to media, Patrick has faced ongoing scrutiny over her on-air performance. Notable incidents include incorrectly announcing Lewis Hamilton as the winner during a Formula 1 race dominated by Max Verstappen, which intensified doubts about her expertise. Critics argue that networks prioritize her celebrity status over technical knowledge, undermining the quality of race analysis. Despite these critiques, FOX Sports has maintained her as a key part of their Indy 500 coverage, underscoring the tension between star appeal and analytical credibility in sports broadcasting.
Supporters of Patrick emphasize her trailblazing impact on motorsports. Her 2008 IndyCar victory and third-place finish at the 2009 Indy 500 broke gender barriers and inspired many female racers. Tony Stewart himself has praised her fearless approach and pioneering legacy, noting that her influence extends beyond race statistics to encouraging a new generation of drivers. Patrick’s career path from driver to media personality has made her a prominent figure who brings a unique perspective rooted in firsthand racing experience.
In contrast, Tony Stewart’s return to the Indy 500 broadcast booth has been met with enthusiasm. Known for clear, engaging commentary and deep technical knowledge, Stewart is widely regarded as a trusted and insightful analyst. His presence is expected to elevate FOX’s coverage and appeal to dedicated racing fans. The stark difference in fan reception between Stewart and Patrick highlights the challenges Patrick faces in gaining similar respect as a broadcaster.
The controversy surrounding Patrick’s role reflects broader debates in motorsports media about credibility, preparation, and the balance between celebrity and expertise. While some fans call for more seasoned analysts, others appreciate Patrick’s ability to connect with diverse audiences and promote inclusivity in racing. FOX Sports appears committed to combining experienced racers like Stewart with high-profile personalities like Patrick to attract a wide viewership.
As the 2025 Indianapolis 500 approaches, the discussion around Danica Patrick’s broadcasting contributions remains heated and unresolved. Her supporters view her as a pioneering figure whose achievements and media presence add valuable context to race coverage. Critics continue to question her analytical skills and readiness for such a prominent role. Meanwhile, Tony Stewart’s universally positive reception underscores the high standards expected in the broadcast booth for one of motorsport’s premier events.
Ultimately, Patrick’s participation in FOX’s Indy 500 broadcast symbolizes ongoing tensions in motorsports and sports media about who is deemed credible and how the industry navigates tradition, progress, and audience expectations. Her role ensures that conversations about representation, expertise, and the future of racing commentary will remain central as the green flag drops in Indianapolis.
