In the lead-up to the 2025 Indy 500, Team Penske driver Will Power reflected on a challenging time in 2023 when his wife, Liz, was rushed to the hospital due to a severe medical emergency. Amid this difficult period, Power revealed the profound bond he shares with Liz, highlighting how her health struggles deeply affected both his personal life and racing career.
During the 2023 IndyCar off-season, Liz Power experienced sudden, intense back pain that left her unable to move, causing a spike in her body temperature to 106⁰F. Doctors diagnosed her with a staph infection in her spine, necessitating emergency surgery. Will Power spoke openly about how close he came to losing his wife, emphasizing the unwavering support Liz has always provided for his racing ambitions.
Danica Patrick Highlights the Strong Connection Between Will and Liz Power
Danica Patrick, part of the FOX broadcast team covering the 109th Indy 500, became visibly emotional while describing the connection between Will and Liz. She noted how transparent their emotions are and how visibly connected they remain during the pressures of racing.
“You never have to wonder how either of them are feeling. They’ll show you, they’ll tell you whether it’s Will getting excited, Will being angry, Will being happy, them being connected in that moment together. Or, of course, those water bottles and the anxiety that Liz has.” —Danica Patrick, FOX broadcast team
Liz Power often attends races to support her husband, visibly showing the strain and nervousness racing places on both of them, with her anxious habits like gripping and twisting water bottles appearing regularly on trackside. Danica Patrick also recounted the enduring nature of their partnership, tracing it back to 2018 when Liz predicted Will’s victory at the Indy 500.
“They are obviously so, so deeply connected. They ride this roller coaster of racing together. They are the ultimate teammates. They have each other’s back all the way, but it’s that deep connection all the way back to 2018 when Liz predicted that Will was going to win the Indy 500.” —Danica Patrick, FOX broadcast team
Will Power’s Performance in 2023 and Challenges Ahead for the 2025 Indy 500
Will Power’s 2023 season with Team Penske marked one of his toughest years in IndyCar, finishing seventh in the championship after winning the title in 2022. He openly admitted that the strain of his wife’s health crisis affected his mindset and preparation for races, acknowledging how personal challenges can influence performance on the track.
“It was a tough start for me personally actually with what was going on with my family.” —Will Power, Team Penske driver
“It certainly affects your preparation and your mindset, that it does hurt you. Not an excuse, but I know how tough this series is, and you can’t have any sort of issues off the track if you want to be good on the track.” —Will Power, Team Penske driver
Looking ahead to the 2025 Indy 500, Power faces additional hurdles as he is set to start from the last position on the 33-car grid. This consequence stems from penalties imposed on the #12 Chevrolet entry due to a controversy involving a modified attenuator. Despite these setbacks, Power and Liz’s connection remains a beacon of strength and resilience as they prepare for the race.
The Importance of Support and Unity for Will Power Moving Forward
Will Power’s journey illustrates how deeply intertwined personal life and professional racing can be. The support from Liz during his career highs and lows has proven critical, providing emotional balance and motivation. As Power begins the 2025 Indy 500 from the back of the grid, this strong partnership will likely play a key role in facing the challenges ahead, showcasing the power of unwavering support amid the intense demands of IndyCar racing.
