Tim Cindric, a seasoned Team Penske executive who was dismissed last May due to a technical violation at the Indianapolis 500, has been brought back as Scott McLaughlin’s race strategist for the upcoming IndyCar season. This new role appears to be focused on race weekends, reflecting Cindric’s preference to avoid the full-time demands of managing a global racing organization like Team Penske.
Experience and Background of Tim Cindric with Team Penske
Cindric previously served as Team Penske’s team president and was the race strategist for two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Josef Newgarden. Although he had reduced his involvement after the 2024 season, the May 2025 technical infraction that led to his firing also involved two other top executives from the organization, including the handling of Newgarden and Will Power’s cars right before qualifying. This marked the second major infraction faced by Penske within a year, prompting decisive action from team owner Roger Penske.
Since his departure, the other executives found new positions with different teams, but Cindric has returned to Penske in a more focused capacity solely as a strategist.
Statements from Team Leadership and Scott McLaughlin on Cindric’s Return
Jonathan Diuguid, Penske’s new team president, highlighted the value Cindric brings to McLaughlin’s crew.
“Tim Cindric brings decades of experience to Scott’s timing stand, and given his experience and time within our organization, he will be a great addition to our lineup on race day in the role of race strategist,”
Diuguid said in a statement issued Thursday.
Scott McLaughlin expressed strong enthusiasm about working with Cindric again.
“Tim Cindric is a huge part of why I was able to make the journey from Australia to the IndyCar Series,”
McLaughlin said.
“We’ve had a very close relationship for many years and he’s been a tremendous help to my career. I’m so excited to get to work with him in this capacity in 2026.”
He also noted,
“I’ve wanted to have TC on my stand from the moment I got here. His experience, knowledge and focus are world class.”
Impact of Cindric’s Return on Team Penske and Future Prospects
Cindric’s return is expected to strengthen Scott McLaughlin’s strategic team, bringing veteran insights that could improve race-day decisions. While his involvement will be limited relative to his previous leadership role, the move signifies Team Penske’s intent to combine stability with fresh leadership under Jonathan Diuguid. The reunion could also aid McLaughlin’s continued development as a top contender in the IndyCar series, reflecting Penske’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge amid a challenging season ahead.
