Will Power kicked off 2026 with a symbolic gesture, heading out for a late-night run in his new Andretti Global gear on January 1, just after leaving Team Penske. The accomplished driver, known for his dominance in IndyCar, is beginning his Andretti Global journey after ending a 17-year chapter with Penske, a shift that marks his much-anticipated Will Power Andretti Global debut.
Transition from Team Penske to Andretti Global
Will Power chose to leave Team Penske after the 2025 season, but a contract clause required him to remain until the end of the year, delaying his full entry to Andretti Global. Penske’s move to enforce this clause was seen as a response to Power opting out of a one-year extension, aiming to give him less time to acclimate before they face each other as rivals in the 2026 IndyCar season. Unwilling to waste any more time, Power took the initiative by starting his transition as soon as the new year dawned.
Documenting his commitment, Power filmed himself during a nighttime run dressed in Andretti attire, stating:
“Happy New Year. You know what? This Andretti stuff is very nice to work out in, in the cold. This is like the first day of work. We’re in 26, and I’m in the 26.”
– Will Power, Driver
From 2026 onward, Power is set to command the No. 26 Andretti Global Honda. The seat was previously held by Colton Herta, who is now pursuing opportunities outside IndyCar, joining Cadillac F1 as a test driver and preparing for a full F2 season with Hitech TGR.
Back at Team Penske, the vacancy left by Power in the No. 12 Chevrolet will be filled by David Malukas. Power’s tenure at Penske was marked by historic achievements, including 42 race victories and 65 pole positions in the No. 12, making him a central figure in the team’s recent era of success.
Daytona Debut Marks a New Chapter
Will Power’s first competitive outing representing Andretti Global will be the Rolex 24 at Daytona, scheduled for January 24-25. This event marks a significant milestone as Power joins 75 Express, a team run by fellow Australian and racing friend Kenny Habul, piloting the No. 75 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo.
Power had initially planned to make his Rolex 24 debut in 2023 with 75 Express, but he stepped aside due to his wife Liz’s medical complications following surgery. The IndyCar champion and Habul recently teamed up at the Indianapolis 8 Hour at the IMS road course, achieving a strong sixth-place finish and contributing to Habul’s fifth Intercontinental GT Challenge Independent Cup title.
The Daytona outing is a one-off appearance, but it serves as an important first test for Power as he adapts to a new car and team environment—a crucial step before immersing himself fully in preparations for the upcoming IndyCar season with Andretti Global.
Power is expected to begin official simulator work with Andretti well before he takes on the competition at Daytona, giving him precious time to build synergy with his new crew and fine-tune his performance for the challenges ahead.
Significance of Power’s New Beginning
Will Power’s arrival at Andretti Global signals a transformative phase not only for his career but also for both organizations involved. With years of top-level competition and a legacy built at Team Penske, his debut is poised to shake up the dynamics amongst leading IndyCar contenders. As rivalries take on new layers, fans and competitors alike will closely follow Power’s progress—from his performance at the famed Daytona event, through vital pre-season preparations, and onto his eagerly awaited races with the No. 26 Andretti Global Honda.
First day of work…Happy New Year! pic.twitter.com/gFMFlQZ8Ph
— Will Power (@26WillPower_) January 1, 2026
