David Malukas Bio
Early Life and Background
David Joseph Malukas was born on September 27, 2001, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He is of Lithuanian descent, as his parents emigrated from Telšiai in 1991 after Lithuania regained independence from the Soviet Union. Growing up in Chicago, Malukas was exposed to racing at an early age, which ignited his passion for motorsports.
Path to IndyCar
Malukas began his racing career in karting, where he gained valuable experience that would set the foundation for his future in professional racing. He progressed through various junior formulas, including the Formula 4 UAE Championship and the ADAC Formula 4 Championship, where he honed his skills and showcased his talent. Notably, he competed in the U.S. F2000 National Championship and the Pro Mazda Championship, achieving multiple podiums and wins, which ultimately led him to the Indy Lights series.
David Malukas Career
Early Career (2016–2021)
Malukas started his professional racing career in 2016, competing in the Formula 4 UAE Championship. He finished sixth in the championship despite not contesting the full season. In 2017, he moved to the ADAC Formula 4 Championship, finishing nineteenth overall. His breakthrough came in the U.S. F2000 National Championship, where he secured a second-place finish at Road America, showcasing his potential.
In 2018, Malukas transitioned to the Pro Mazda Championship, where he had a standout season with three wins and six podiums, finishing fourth in the standings. His journey continued in the Indy Lights series, where he claimed his first win in 2021, finishing second in the championship with seven wins and sixteen podiums, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in American open-wheel racing.
IndyCar Breakthrough (2022–2023)
Malukas made his IndyCar debut in 2022 with Dale Coyne Racing, driving the No. 18 car. He quickly made an impact, achieving a career-best ninth-place finish at Mid-Ohio and securing his first podium at Gateway, where he finished second. In 2023, he continued to impress with consistent performances, including a fourth-place finish at Texas Motor Speedway and a third-place finish at Gateway.
Team Penske Era (2026–Present)
In September 2025, Malukas was announced as the driver for Team Penske, taking over the No. 12 Chevrolet. This move marked a significant step in his career, as he joined one of the most prestigious teams in motorsports. His first season with Team Penske is highly anticipated, and he aims to build on his previous successes and compete for wins regularly.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Malukas is known for his aggressive driving style and strategic approach to racing. His ability to adapt to different tracks and conditions has been a key factor in his success. He combines technical skill with a strong understanding of racecraft, making him a formidable competitor on the track.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Malukas has achieved several notable milestones, including multiple wins in the Indy Lights series and his impressive podium finishes in IndyCar. His rise through the ranks of American open-wheel racing has been marked by determination and skill, earning him recognition as one of the sport’s promising talents.
David Malukas Career Wins
David Malukas has made a name for himself in various racing series, achieving significant success in the Indy Lights and IndyCar series. While he has yet to secure a win in IndyCar, his multiple podium finishes demonstrate his competitive edge.
Current IndyCar Series Highlights
In the 2025 IndyCar season, Malukas finished with three podiums, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level. His most notable performance came at the Indianapolis 500, where he finished second after starting seventh, highlighting his potential to contend for victories in the future.
Previous Indy Lights Series Achievements
During his time in the Indy Lights series, Malukas achieved seven wins and sixteen podiums, finishing second in the championship standings in 2021. His success in this series laid the groundwork for his transition to IndyCar and established him as a top talent in American motorsports.
David Malukas Family
Family Background and IndyCar Lineage
Malukas comes from a family with Lithuanian roots, which he proudly honors by representing both the American and Lithuanian flags on his racing cars. His family’s support has been instrumental in his racing career, providing him with the foundation needed to pursue his passion for motorsports.
Personal Life
Details about Malukas’ personal life remain private, as he focuses on his racing career. However, he has expressed pride in his heritage and the influence it has had on his life and career.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked a pivotal year for David Malukas as he transitioned to Team Penske. His performances included a strong showing at the Indianapolis 500, where he finished second, indicating his potential to compete for wins. Throughout the season, he demonstrated consistency and skill, finishing in the top ten multiple times. As he continues to develop with Team Penske, the outlook for Malukas remains positive, with expectations for further success in the upcoming seasons.
