Will Power, known as the fastest qualifier in IndyCar history, faced another setback at Iowa Speedway as an engine failure forced his retirement in Race 2, continuing his 2025 season of frustration with mechanical issues. Despite these challenges, Power remains a key contender within Team Penske, a squad struggling with reliability problems that threaten their competitive edge.
Will Power’s ongoing reliability problems derail his race in Iowa
The Australian driver, who secured a podium finish in the previous race day, was forced to withdraw after his engine failed once again during the second race at Iowa Speedway. Power has experienced significant misfortune this season, with repeated mechanical failures beginning from the first race in St. Petersburg. His issues included a similar engine failure at Mid-Ohio, where he retired after just 11 laps. Reflecting on the Iowa incident, Power expressed his disappointment at Motorsportweek:
“Same as Mid-Ohio, some kind of engine failure… We improved upon yesterday, felt like we would have had a good race. Obviosuly, you never know what can happen, something did happen. But, ah man, pity. We keep giving away days so we have a car to win. Yeah, just had those seasons I guess; not much we can do.” —Will Power
Since joining Team Penske in 2009, Power has solidified his reputation with multiple pole positions, race victories, two championship titles, and an Indy 500 win. Notably, he ended Alex Palou’s championship streak by winning the drivers‘ championship in 2022. However, the 2025 season has starkly contrasted with his past successes, marked by recurring retirements.
Team Penske’s reliability struggles undermine their 2025 performance
Although Team Penske holds the distinction of being the most accomplished team in IndyCar racing, 2025 has proven to be a challenging year. The trio of drivers representing the team has collectively accumulated twelve retirements in as many race weekends, resulting in an average of one mechanical failure or DNF per race weekend. This poor reliability record has hampered their capacity to compete consistently at the front.
Will Power’s troubles contribute heavily to this concerning trend, complicating his pursuit of a contract extension with the Mooresville-based team for 2026. Power revealed that discussions with team owner Roger Penske regarding his future have been delayed, worsening the uncertainty surrounding his position. He explained in an interview with Motorsportweek:
“Probably, it has probably pushed their decision a little further down the road. I met with Roger [Penske] after Detroit, he said then it would be August for us to reconvene. It’s still going to be late, maybe even after the season. I don’t have any clue what the scenarios are. I haven’t been told anything. All I’ve been told is ‘We’ll talk in August.’ That’s it.” —Will Power
Impact of ongoing difficulties on Will Power’s career and Team Penske’s future
Power remains Team Penske’s highest-ranked driver in current championship standings despite his failures to finish recent races. His persistence highlights his resilience, but the ongoing engine failures and uncertain contract status cast a shadow over his future with the team. As the only Team Penske driver without a confirmed deal for the next season, mounting mechanical issues could heavily influence the organization’s decisions moving forward.
The combination of Power’s engine failure struggles and Team Penske’s broader reliability problems threatens to undermine their efforts to regain dominance in the IndyCar series. The team’s ability to resolve these technical setbacks will be crucial for both their championship ambitions and for ensuring that experienced drivers like Will Power remain part of their roster.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is will power a real thing?
A. Psychologists often describe willpower, or self-control, with more detailed terms. Experts say willpower is the skill to postpone immediate pleasures to achieve future objectives.
Q. Is will power a thing?
A. Many psychologists describe willpower as the skill to hold off immediate pleasures to achieve goals in the future. It is the strength to push aside unwanted thoughts, feelings, or urges.
Q. Is will power genetic?
A. Both environment and genetics play roles here. Genetic differences can affect willpower levels and the kinds of temptations people face. Some individuals might naturally enjoy healthy eating and hard work, so they may not need as much willpower.
Q. Is Will Power good or bad?
A. The term “willpower” may have both positive and negative meanings. When a person uses their determination to achieve a goal, others admire their success and persistence—this is considered willpower. Conversely, if someone does not meet a goal, people might say it is due to a lack of willpower, often seen as an explanation for their failure.
