Will Power approaches the 2026 IndyCar season facing uncertainty about his future, as he nears the end of his contract with Team Penske. Despite being the top performer for Penske in 2025, the team has yet to commit to extending his contract, raising questions about his next move in the premier American open-wheel racing series.
According to reporter Marshall Pruett, Team Penske is expected to replace Power with AJ Foyt Racing’s David Malukas, though Power will not have official confirmation until the season finale in Nashville, scheduled from August 29 to 31. If Power parts ways with Penske, he will need to decide whether to join another team or retire, with several potential suitors already showing interest in acquiring the two-time champion.
Potential Landing Spot: Meyer Shank Racing’s Interest in Will Power
Following Will Power’s victory at the Portland Grand Prix, his wife, Elizabeth, openly expressed frustration about the lack of communication from Team Penske regarding his contract. However, she also revealed that multiple teams have approached Power with offers for 2026. While specific names were not disclosed, Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) emerges as a promising destination.
Michael Shank, MSR’s owner, recently informed FOX reporter Kevin Lee that Marcus Armstrong, who currently drives the No. 66 car, is nearing the end of his contract. Armstrong has secured solid results this season, including a podium finish at Iowa, but the availability of a driver with Power’s caliber could alter the team’s plans. At Meyer Shank Racing, Power would remain competitive for Top 5 finishes and podium spots, supported by MSR’s technical partnership with Chip Ganassi Racing, a dominant force in IndyCar recently.
AJ Foyt Racing’s Role and Implications of Signing Power
David Malukas, the driver of AJ Foyt Racing‘s No. 4 car, is currently on a Team Penske contract, as AJ Foyt Racing (AJFR) maintains a technical alliance with Penske. This arrangement allows Penske to develop Malukas within AJFR before potentially promoting him to a Penske seat—a move that is reportedly planned if Power departs.
Should Malukas be promoted to Penske, AJ Foyt Racing will need to secure approximately $10 million in sponsorship to maintain their No. 4 ride. Bringing Will Power into AJFR as part of a driver swap could simplify funding, as Power’s sponsors are likely to follow him, alleviating AJFR’s financial challenges. Additionally, Power would continue racing with Chevrolet-powered machinery, sparing him from adapting to Honda engines for the first time in over 15 years—a significant consideration that would not arise at Meyer Shank Racing.
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s Public Interest in Power
Among the teams circling Will Power, only Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing (RLL) has openly expressed a desire to sign him for 2026. Veteran driver Graham Rahal, whose father Bobby Rahal is a co-owner of the team, praised Power as a valuable asset even before the Portland Grand Prix victory.
“I don’t know where Will goes. I don’t know what Will does. But all I can say is there’s not many guys better in this series than Will Power. If I were Team Penske, I don’t think I would let him go. But that’s just me.”
—Graham Rahal, IndyCar Driver
Rahal also highlighted that Power has recently been the best performer on Team Penske’s roster, surpassing teammates Scott McLaughlin and Josef Newgarden. This recognition amplifies Power’s standing as a leading contender for any team seeking both experience and competitive results in 2026.
What Lies Ahead for Will Power and IndyCar Teams
The uncertainty surrounding Will Power’s contract renewal with Team Penske adds a dramatic narrative to the closing stages of the 2025 IndyCar season. His potential departure could trigger significant reshuffling among the top teams, influencing driver lineups and sponsorship arrangements. Meyer Shank Racing, AJ Foyt Racing, and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing stand out as leading candidates to acquire Power’s talents, each offering different strategic advantages, from manufacturer continuity to strong technical alliances.
As the season finale in Nashville approaches, the decision on Power’s future will not only impact his career trajectory but could also shift competitive dynamics across the series. Fans and insiders alike will be closely watching how these developments unfold, anticipating the moves that could shape the 2026 IndyCar championship fight.
