IndyCar Opposes DHS Use of Racing Imagery for Indiana Detention Center

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced plans to expand immigration detention capacity in Indiana by adding 1,000 beds at the Miami Correctional Facility, branding the initiative as the "Speedway Slammer." To promote this, DHS posted an AI-generated image of an IndyCar-style vehicle with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) logo and the number of IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward, the series' only Mexican driver, which caught both IndyCar officials and O’Ward by surprise. IndyCar formally expressed disapproval of the unauthorized use of their intellectual property and requested that DHS cease using their imagery in connection with the detention center. DHS defended the post, stating that the AI-generated image did not violate intellectual property rights and will maintain the promotion. The controversy highlights the sensitivity around using motorsport branding and the association with immigration enforcement, especially given O’Ward's heritage and prominence in the series. Indiana’s partnership with DHS to expand detention facilities has drawn criticism from the motorsport community, while DHS and officials emphasize the seriousness of immigration enforcement work.