Danica Patrick Names Her Three Favorite Drivers Right Now

There are plenty of drivers who have earned Danica Patrick's respect, but three in particular stand above the rest.

Patrick, 44, raced in the IndyCar Series from 2005-2011 and NASCAR Cup Series from 2012-2018 before retiring from racing. Although she didn't win any races in the Cup Series, she made history in 2008 by winning the Japan 300. That was the first win ever recorded by a woman in IndyCar.

During an interview with Will Buxton this week, Patrick gave credit to IndyCar Series driver Alex Palou. She believes the reigning Indy 500 champion is one of the best drivers across any racing series.

Patrick also has a ton of respect for four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen.

"Alex Palou stands above in a big way. Even when he's off they figure it out," Patrick said. "Max Verstappen is obviously spectacular. He has shown that time and time again with his fire and aggression on track. His drive for wanting everything to go perfectly - that's what he told me he wanted to do every weekend."

As for NASCAR's Cup Series, it appears Kyle Larson is officially on Patrick's radar.

"I love Kyle Larson. I think he's such a gifted driver. He has so many disciplines himself, I mean he came over here to do the Indy 500."

Danica is back in the spotlight.

Patrick will be back in the spotlight this weekend as a guest analyst for FOX's coverage of the Indy 500

"Back home again in (windy) Indiana," she wrote on Instagram. "Vibes were definitely high for what became a one day qualifying show for the pole after Saturday rained out. Fun day on track and great catching up with old friends."

The 110th running of the Indianapolis 500 will begin at 12:45 p.m. ET.

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This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 1:24 PM.