Team Penske announced on September 18 that David Malukas will join its NTT IndyCar Series roster, taking over the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet vehicle starting in the 2026 season. The contract spans multiple years, although the exact duration has not been revealed. This move marks a significant step for Malukas as he prepares to compete under one of IndyCar’s most prestigious banners.
Replacing Will Power and Embracing New Challenges
Malukas will be replacing Will Power, who is scheduled to race for Andretti Global in 2026. Team Penske owner Roger Penske expressed enthusiasm about the signing, noting the organization’s commitment to supporting Malukas’ development.
“We are excited to add David Malukas as the next driver of the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet,”
Penske stated. He added,
“We feel that Team Penske will provide David everything needed to take the next step in his career, and we are confident that he will continue the great legacy of the Verizon Chevrolet.”
Malukas himself reflected on the opportunity, highlighting how meaningful it is to race for Penske.
“Racing for Team Penske is the goal for every young racecar driver, and I am honored to be one that gets to live out that dream,”
he said. He acknowledged the challenge of succeeding a legendary teammate by adding,
“Will Power is one of the legends of our sport and the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet is one of the most-recognized cars on the grid. These are big shoes to fill, but I look at it as an opportunity because I know that it is one of the best teams in the paddock.”
Malukas’s Track Record and Career Progression
In 2025, Malukas competed with AJ Foyt Racing and finished 11th overall in the points standings. He achieved his best result that season by finishing as a runner-up in the Indianapolis 500, one of the series’ most prestigious races. His season with AJ Foyt Racing was brief, lasting only the one year. Since his debut in the series in 2022, Malukas has driven for three different teams, and joining Team Penske will be his fourth team affiliation.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for IndyCar and Team Penske
David Malukas joining Team Penske signals a fresh chapter not only for the driver but also for a team with a deep legacy in IndyCar racing. The association with Verizon and Chevrolet continues to reinforce the team’s high-profile partnerships. As Malukas prepares to step into the No. 12 car, expectations are high that he will uphold and expand upon the history of success tied to the number. This transition also reflects ongoing shifts in driver lineups across the series, with established stars like Will Power moving to new teams such as Andretti Global.
As the 2026 season approaches, the motorsport community will watch closely to see how Malukas adapts to the new environment, and how Team Penske’s support may enhance his performance. The coming seasons could prove pivotal for his career and the competitive landscape of the NTT IndyCar Series.
