Will Power secured his second straight win at Portland International Raceway on Sunday, a moment celebrated by his fellow drivers and teams. However, despite this success, uncertainty lingers over his position with Team Penske for the 2026 NTT IndyCar Seriesseason, as neither Power nor the team’s leadership provided clarity about his contract renewal. The focus on Power’s IndyCar future has intensified following this notable victory.
Unclear Contract Status Despite Strong Performance
Following the BITNILE.com Grand Prix of Portland, the 44-year-old Australian driver was upfront about his uncertain status for next year. When asked if this win would influence a contract extension with Team Penske, Power responded plainly,
“I have no clue. I don’t know. Yeah, nothing else to say, man. I don’t know,”
highlighting the ambiguity surrounding his future with the team.
Team Penske’s newly appointed President, Jonathan Diuguid, remained tight-lipped about Power’s contract prospects. Speaking to the media, Diuguid emphasized the team’s recent success without addressing the driver’s status:
“Look, I’m not going to discuss that today. I’m going to focus on the win, the team performance. Winning can do a lot of things. It’s very positive for our program. We’re going to reap all the benefits of that as we head to Milwaukee.”
Power’s Career Achievements and Popularity Among Peers
Will Power’s remarkable career includes 45 IndyCar racewins, ranking him fourth all-time, along with two series championships in 2014 and 2022, and a prestigious win at the 2018 Indianapolis 500. His recent victory at Portland was met with enthusiasm not only from his own team but also from his competitors. After the race, Power shared,
Image of: Will Power
“Both teammates came up, all the engineers, all the crews came up. As I drove down pit lane, many teams happy to see us get a win,”
reflecting the respect and camaraderie within the IndyCar community.
Power emphasized the strong sense of community in the IndyCar paddock, saying,
“I think what’s happened to the team this year, probably the situation I’m in, as well. It’s a tight-knit community, the IndyCar paddock. It really is,”
and,
“I have to say I really have got to know a lot of people from every team in the paddock. I have so many friends in that paddock, I feel like, to have done this for this long and know that many good people. Everyone looks out for each other even though we compete against each other. Nice feeling.”
Race Strategy and Driving Form Highlighted in Portland Win
Power described his Portland triumph as a day where he could push his limits without having to conserve fuel. Praising his engineer’s strategic call that allowed him to stay on track and lead, he noted,
“a nice day, because I got to push as hard as I could for the whole race, which usually that’s fuel save. I was glad my engineer picked that strategy. He was going to pit me. Then he said to stay out, to be a leader. Had faith that I’d had a lot of pace. It’s a Team Penske-type day, man. When we’re put in the position, we can win.”
The victory was especially significant given the challenges Team Penske has faced this season. Power described the win as business as usual for him, explaining,
“I’ve been in that position so many times in my career. I’m driving the best I ever have. Simple as that. I’m not slowing down. I am not slower. I am faster. My toolbox is still big as far as understanding the cars, race craft, all that. That’s me. I guess I’m different to some people. I never stop working at it. It’s a passion. I love it.”
That’s why I’m still winning.
Power’s Future Outlook Within the IndyCar Community
Given Power’s impressive track record and respected status, it is widely recognized that he would find opportunities in IndyCar even if his path with Team Penske ends. His peers’ support at Portland demonstrates the high regard for his talent and character. As the season continues toward Milwaukee, the decision on Power’s 2026 role remains a focal point for fans and insiders alike.
With the team leadership currently avoiding discussion of contract matters, speculation will persist until official announcements are made. Will Power’s determination and competitive form suggest that, regardless of team affiliation, he remains a formidable presence on the grid for years to come.
