Danica Patrick, a former IndyCar and NASCAR driver, recently expressed her support for fellow athlete Riley Gaines in an ongoing dispute with Olympian Simone Biles. In her social media post, Patrick mentioned taking the “red pills,” a metaphor suggesting she acknowledges some stark truths, especially regarding transgender athletes in women’s sports.
“I think there’s a limit to how long this issue can persist. I truly believe that common sense will prevail,” Patrick stated on Instagram. She also voiced gratitude for individuals like Riley Gaines, noting that Gaines has personal experience with these challenges.
Patrick further added, “Promoting the inclusion of men in women’s sports is problematic and, frankly, quite illogical.”
Her remarks come amidst an escalating exchange between anti-trans activists, including Gaines, and Biles, which reignited over a contentious incident concerning a Minnesota high school softball pitcher.
Biles delivered a pointed response to Gaines, accusing her of being self-serving: “@riley_gaines_ You’re really sick, and this is just about your campaign because you lost the race.” This was in reference to Gaines’ tied finish against UPenn’s Lia Thomas during the 2022 NCAA Championships.
Biles continued, advocating for better inclusivity in sports for the transgender community, saying, “We should either find ways to uplift the trans community in sports or create new platforms where they feel safe.”
In response, Gaines argued, “It’s not the responsibility of women to accommodate men in our spaces. If you want to advocate for men competing in women’s sports, you can do that elsewhere.”
Gaines also took a jab at Biles’ past, mentioning her stance against former Team USA gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar, who has faced serious criminal charges. “Every instance of abuse is linked to one man, yet here we are, expected to undress in front of men to validate their feelings,” Gaines tweeted.
The conflict escalated as Gaines highlighted earlier comments made by Biles, implying a contradiction in her current views. Biles had previously tweeted that “good men don’t compete against girls” during a gymnastics championship, prompting Gaines to retweet and question, “Isn’t it ironic how past statements can undermine current arguments?”
On top of these exchanges, Patrick recently revealed that she voted for the first time in the last election, specifically for Donald Trump. During a campaign event, she expressed how significant it was for her to finally participate in the electoral process.
“I want to emphasize that it’s vital for me to vote. It’s a big deal,” she shared during the event alongside political figures, indicating her strong support.
Patrick, who ended her racing career in 2018, remains an influential figure, both on and off the track.
