Josef Newgarden, a two-time Indianapolis 500 victor, embarks on his 15th IndyCar season in 2026 as the most experienced driver on Team Penske. At 35 years old, Newgarden is navigating a challenging comeback after enduring one of his toughest seasons in over a decade, all while the team works to restore its reputation following two recent cheating scandals.
The upheaval within Team Penske has also tested Newgarden personally, especially as he adjusts to seeing former teammate Will Power and ex-managing director Ron Ruzewski collaborating at rival outfit Andretti Global. The shifting landscape has created a complex environment for the seasoned driver.
Adjusting to Unexpected Team Departures and Rivalries
Newgarden described the experience of witnessing Power and Ruzewski’s new alliance at a recent Firestone test in Phoenix as bewildering. “That was weird,” he admitted, reflecting on the unfamiliar scene of his longtime teammates now on opposite sides.
“It was more weird seeing Ron. I was like ‘What the heck?’ Like I just wanted to debrief with Ron. I was like ’Yeah, what do you think of this? We like this tire, right?′ It was so silly. I’m like ’What are you even doing over there, both him and Will.” – Josef Newgarden, Driver
Despite these changes, Newgarden remained focused during media sessions at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, even while coping with power outages at his home due to a winter storm. The departure of Power, who had driven for Penske since 2009, marked a significant shift in the team’s dynamic for the 2026 season.
Series of Scandals Forces Team Overhaul and Leadership Shakeup
Last season saw turmoil escalate when Power and Newgarden became involved in Penske’s second cheating scandal within a year. During the Indianapolis 500 qualifying, officials discovered illegally modified safety parts on both cars. Although IndyCar found no proof that these changes gave a performance edge, the team faced severe consequences.
Following the investigation, Roger Penske responded by dismissing key personnel, including Ruzewski, team president Tim Cindric, and IndyCar general manager Kyle Moyer. The leadership was restructured with Jonathan Diuguid promoted to team president and Travis Law appointed as competition director. Additionally, Power was confirmed to not return for the 2026 season, replaced by David Malukas.
Newgarden Steps Up as Team’s Longest-Serving Driver
With Power’s exit, Newgarden now holds the mantle of the seasoned veteran on a once dominant three-car Penske squad seeking to regain championship form. Despite the turbulence, he conveyed optimism about the upcoming season.
“We are the evil empire, about to strike,”
Newgarden joked.
“I want to tell you, yeah it feels all different. It feels similar in a lot of ways. When I go in the shop, obviously, we’re going to have some changes, but it feels like business as usual in a lot of respects, so I’m excited.” – Josef Newgarden, Driver
The atmosphere contrasts with the mindset of Will Power, now at Andretti Global, who expressed a fierce desire to defeat his former team.
“There’s nothing more I want to do this year than beat Penske every single weekend,”
Power stated recently in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Competitive Tensions Fuel Intense Rivalry on and off the Track
Though Newgarden holds respect for Power, acknowledging the camaraderie they shared since 2017, he remains determined not to yield ground to his former teammate, signaling a competitive edge as the season approaches.
“I just have a pothole detector,”
Newgarden explained.
“It’s like instead of not seeing where they are, I’m going to find them this year, so that’s my strategy. It’s not a good strategy, but if I can just avoid them without falling into the crevices, I think we’re going to be better off. I’m like 90% positive if we fall in less potholes. We’re going to be better.” – Josef Newgarden, Driver
This calculated approach underscores Newgarden’s cautious yet determined mindset amid a high-pressure season filled with uncertainty and intense competition. As Team Penske strives to move beyond scandal and regain its winning ways, Newgarden’s leadership will be pivotal in setting the tone for future success.
As I said, nice to feel that @HondaRacing_US engine. And riding on the @FirestoneRacing tires of course. pic.twitter.com/3V17dnk2sz
— Will Power (@26WillPower_) January 8, 2026
