David Malukas will take over the No. 12 Chevrolet for Team Penske in the upcoming IndyCar season, replacing veteran driver Will Power. The announcement came on a Thursday, shortly after Team Penske parted ways with Power following his 17-year tenure with the team.
Malukas Joins Penske After Strong Indy 500 Performance
At 23 years old, David Malukas impressed this past season by finishing as the runner-up in the Indianapolis 500 while driving the No. 4 car for A.J. Foyt Racing. Born and raised in Chicago, Malukas has signed a multiyear contract with Team Penske, where he will race alongside seasoned drivers Josef Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin.
Reflecting on the opportunity, Malukas said,
“Racing for Team Penske is the goal for every young race car driver, and I am honored to be one that gets to live out that dream.”
He added,
“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.”
Career Progression and Team Outlook
Since making his IndyCar debut in 2022, Malukas has participated in 44 races and earned three podium finishes. Team Penske’s owner, Roger Penske, expressed confidence in Malukas’ abilities and future with the team. He stated,
“We are excited to add David Malukas as the next driver of the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet.”
Penske continued,
“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 is set to officially debut for Team Penske at the St. Petersburg Grand Prix in Florida on March 1, marking a significant step in his racing career.
Aftermath of Power’s Departure and Team Changes
Will Power, 44, ended his long association with Team Penske on September 2. His distinguished career includes 43 wins, the 2018 Indianapolis 500 victory, and two IndyCar Series championships in 2014 and 2022. Power’s departure marks the end of an era for the team, as they transition to fresh talent with Malukas taking the wheel.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
With David Malukas replacing Will Power, Team Penske aims to maintain its strong presence in the IndyCar Series. Malukas’ youth and recent performances suggest promising potential as he joins the team’s veteran lineup. Fans and analysts will watch closely to see how Malukas adapts to his new role and contributes to Team Penske’s continuing success.
