Will Power, currently in the final year of his contract with Team Penske, has been surrounded by speculation regarding his future in IndyCar. Despite rumors suggesting he might be leaving the series, insider Will Buxton has clarified that contract discussions are still underway, and no decision has been made about the veteran Australian’s plans beyond this season.
As one of the most experienced drivers in IndyCar, Power’s future has been the subject of intense debate, especially following recent controversies such as his disqualification during the Indy 500 qualifying. A report falsely attributed to Townsend Bell claimed that Power had been told he would not be returning next year, causing widespread conjecture among fans and media.
“A lot of speculation around the paddock that Will Power has already been told he won’t be back next year.”
Will Buxton quickly dismissed these assertions, explaining that the comment had been taken out of context. On social media, he clarified that the statement was merely a reflection of circulating speculation, not confirmed information, and highlighted that Townsend Bell had spoken with Power directly.
“Not an accurate quote. I commented on the warmup show that this was the speculation, as it has been this weekend in Detroit, in order to tee up Townsend to clear up the rumors as he’d spoken to Will directly this morning and Power confirmed that he had not been told that.”
Power signed a multi-year agreement with Team Penske before the 2023 season and is regarded as one of IndyCar’s most successful drivers. He holds the fourth-highest number of wins in the series’ history and is the most recent Team Penske driver to secure the championship, having won the title in 2022. Despite contract uncertainty, Power continues to perform strongly, currently leading Team Penske drivers in the championship after finishing fourth at the Detroit Grand Prix.
Insights from Roger Penske on Power’s Contract Status
Roger Penske, owner of the Penske team, addressed questions about Will Power’s future earlier in May. Speaking in an interview with FOX Sports ahead of the Indy 500, Penske acknowledged ongoing negotiations but expressed confidence in Power’s return.
“We’ve got a time, negotiating period with Will that we’ve told him about. He understands that completely. We’re not out knocking on doors, and we expect to sit down with him following Indy and as we get toward the end of the season. But there’s no secret, his contract is up.
He’s done a great job for us. We’re just looking at our options, and I’m sure he will, too. But at the moment, we feel confident that he will be back.”
Power, who joined Team Penske in 2009, has a decorated career with multiple titles, including the 2018 Indy 500 victory. He has also broken records such as surpassing Mario Andretti for the most pole positions in IndyCar history, amassing 70 poles. His recent collaboration with the A14 management group, owned by Formula 1 star Fernando Alonso, signals a strategic move as he contemplates his future.
The Context Around Power’s Career and Future Prospects
Entering his 17th season, Will Power remains a leading figure in IndyCar, combining experience with competitive results. His tenure with Team Penske has been marked by significant achievements, and his role as a title contender continues this season, with strong performances despite off-track distractions.
The current speculation around Power’s continuation in the series stems from his contract expiration and recent controversies but has been repeatedly challenged by insiders and team leadership. Discussions between Power and Penske management are ongoing, with mutual interest in continuing the partnership as the season progresses.
The outcome of these negotiations will have implications not only for Power’s career but also for Team Penske’s driver lineup strategy moving forward. With Power’s proven track record and current form, many expect he’ll remain a key competitor in the series, contributing to the team’s pursuit of more victories.
As the IndyCar season unfolds, attention will remain focused on the developments regarding Will Power’s contract status, with further clarity expected after the Indy 500 and as negotiations advance toward the season’s conclusion.
