In 2026, David Malukas will step into the spotlight as the new driver for Team Penske’s No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet, replacing Will Power, the two-time series champion who had been a staple at the team since 2009. This transition marks a significant moment, with Malukas earning the seat following an impressive 2025 season at AJ Foyt Racing. The move highlights the growing recognition of Malukas’ talent in the highly competitive IndyCar landscape.
Malukas Joins an Elite Lineup at Penske
Taking over for Power means filling the shoes of a racing legend, but Malukas will find himself alongside formidable teammates, including Josef Newgarden, a series and Indianapolis 500 champion, and race winner Scott McLaughlin. This trio sets a powerful tone for Team Penske’s ambitions in the coming season, positioning Malukas within one of IndyCar’s most successful teams.
Overcoming Early Setbacks to Reach the Top Team
Malukas’ path to Team Penske was far from smooth. After showing promise with Dale Coyne Racing during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, he secured a spot with Arrow McLaren in 2024. Unfortunately, a mountain biking accident before the season began caused injuries that sidelined him for the first several races. This setback contributed to an early split from Arrow McLaren.
He then joined Meyer Shank Racing mid-season and later moved to AJ Foyt Racing for 2025. His strong performances there paved the way for the Penske opportunity. Reflecting on this journey, Malukas noted valuable personal growth resulting from his unexpected challenges.
Lessons Learned from Adversity and Time Away from Racing
Malukas described the injury period as a profound learning experience.
“I feel like I always say everything happens for a reason, especially from 2024 until now. I really believe in that now. With the injury… it looked so dark and bleak. I actually look back on it, and I thought it was a very good thing that happened for me. I matured 10 years in one year.”
– David Malukas
During his recovery, Malukas gained insights into the technical side of racing by observing from the pits. This helped him widen his understanding of the sport beyond driving.
He explained,
“It gave me a different perspective on a lot of things. Mainly that, [we] as drivers, when we’re on track, we really don’t know much of what’s going on. The engineers have 10-plus screens that they’re looking at and seeing all these graphs and data, and it helped me realize that when I got back into the car to kind of shut up a few times. Don’t start complaining [about] these certain things because they know a lot more than you do.”
– David Malukas
This newfound appreciation for the role of race engineers and their data-driven approach also demonstrated Malukas’ growth in maturity and teamwork.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of the Season Opener
Malukas is scheduled to make his debut in the No. 12 car at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1. This race traditionally opens the IndyCar season, providing a “first day of school” atmosphere as Malukas settles into his new role among the series’ frontrunners. Though stepping into such a prominent position can feel daunting, he expressed confidence in quickly adapting to the demands of racing at this level.
He shared,
“After the first practice — it’s crazy how quick your brain can turn back into things and get back into a rhythm. After the first practice session, you’re like, ‘Okay, everything’s clicking back to me. I know where we’re at. I know what’s going on, and let’s get to it.’”
– David Malukas
Looking Ahead: What Malukas’ Rise Means for IndyCar and Team Penske
David Malukas’ ascension to Team Penske not only underscores his resilience but also promises renewed vigor for one of IndyCar’s premier teams. His personal evolution from adversity reflects the intense, passionate spirit necessary to succeed at this level. Moving forward, Malukas will aim to build on his lessons learned and prove himself as a key contender in the series.
With teammates like Josef Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin, and the support of an experienced engineering team, Malukas is well-positioned to make a significant impact. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the new season unfolds, eager to see how this promising talent shapes his future with Team Penske.
