In a surprising development shortly before the Indy 500, Team Penske dismissed three senior executives, including Will Power’s chief strategist, Ron Ruzewski. The decision came amid controversy surrounding the modified attenuator issue, forcing Power to start the race from the back row, a rare occurrence in his career. This unexpected shake-up has brought significant attention to the team’s strategy going into one of the sport’s biggest events.
Will Power Expresses Disappointment but Shows Support for Departed Executives
During a press conference, Will Power openly shared his surprise and regret over the dismissals. He described the news as “a shock and a pity,” while acknowledging the expertise and long-standing contributions of those who left. Power’s remarks underscored the value these team members brought to Penske’s success and the emotional impact of their absence on the squad.
Among the executives let go were Tim Cindric and Ron Ruzewski, both pivotal figures at Team Penske for many years. Power also recognized the difficult position this put team owner Roger Penske in, highlighting the challenge of making tough decisions under pressure while maintaining the team’s integrity.
Looking Forward: New Leadership and Focus on the Race Ahead
Despite the upheaval, Power’s attention is firmly fixed on the upcoming race. Jonathan Diuguid has stepped in as his new race strategist, tasked with guiding efforts amid the organizational changes. Power emphasized the importance of staying motivated and moving beyond recent distractions to compete strongly in the 109th running of the Indy 500.
This moment of adversity brings into sharp focus Team Penske’s resilience and Will Power’s determination to succeed despite setbacks. As the countdown to the iconic race continues, the motorsport community watches closely to see how the team adapts and pushes toward victory on race day.
“a shock and a pity.” —Will Power, Driver
