Two-time IndyCar champion Will Power is preparing for a significant change as he moves from Team Penske to Andretti Global in 2026, marking the end of a 17-year era. The seasoned Australian driver expressed a mix of emotions about this transition, highlighting the unusual sensation of leaving a team where he has spent most of his career and built a legacy.
Recalling a Distinguished Career with Team Penske
Will Power began his journey with Team Penske in 2009, initially competing in a part-time schedule. During that period, he delivered an impressive performance by finishing in the Top 10 in five out of six races, including a notable victory at Edmonton, with his lowest placement being ninth. This strong start convinced Team Penske to sign him full-time in 2010 as the driver of the No. 12 Chevrolet.
Over the years, Power and Penske forged a highly successful partnership, producing two IndyCar championships, a triumphant win at the 2018 Indianapolis 500, and an outstanding record of 71 pole positions, 65 of which he earned with Penske. However, after a communication breakdown beginning in 2024, their collaboration came to an end following the 2025 season.
Reflecting on his time with Penske during a conversation on The Offseason, hosted by James Coker, Power shared what he will miss most about his long tenure with the team.
“The relationships that I forged over that time, the people I worked with for so long. The engineer I worked with was more than 17 years, actually. We started in ’07, was the first time together. So that’s 20 years or something with Dave (Faustino). It’s all the people you became friends with, worked with, won championships and races with, poles, all the stuff.” – Will Power, IndyCar driver
“I went into that shop almost every day. It will be strange for me. I feel fortunate to have driven for Penske. Great team, giving you equipment, and the people, and the atmosphere to achieve a lot. So yeah, I had a great time there, great time,” Power added. – Will Power, IndyCar driver
Despite the fond memories, Power acknowledged that leaving Penske was necessary for him at this stage in his career.
“It was the right time to do something different.” – Will Power, IndyCar driver
Adjusting to a New Environment with Andretti Global
Will Power officially began his transition to Andretti Global on January 1, following the conclusion of his contract with Team Penske. Shortly thereafter, he underwent a seat fitting in preparation for his debut test with the new team, which took place on January 7 at Phoenix Raceway.
The test was organized by Firestone as part of its tire development program and included Power along with his former Penske teammate Josef Newgarden. This event marked Power’s first experience integrating with a new racing team after nearly two decades with Penske.
Describing his initial feelings during the test, Power compared it to starting anew in an academic setting, noting the uncertainty that comes with unfamiliar faces and systems.
“It did feel like the first day of school,” he told RACER. “First day at a new team, learning people’s names and not feeling completely comfortable because you don’t know everyone yet. But it’s a nice feeling to not have any sort of complacency or anything; you’ve got to make sure you’re on your game.” – Will Power, IndyCar driver
As preseason testing approaches in February and the 2026 season opener at St. Petersburg nears on March 1, Power is expected to grow more confident and comfortable within the Andretti Global environment.
What This Change Means for Power’s Future
Will Power’s move to Andretti Global represents a significant shift in his career, not just in terms of teams, but also the challenge of adapting to new colleagues and dynamics. His extensive experience and decorated history with Team Penske will be invaluable as he pursues additional success with Andretti.
This transition comes at a critical time in IndyCar, and Power’s determination and reflection on the past suggest he is ready to embrace the uncertainties ahead. Fans and observers will be watching closely to see how this change affects his performance and whether he can continue to add to his impressive record in the upcoming seasons.
