Will Power, an experienced IndyCar driver, recently transitioned from Team Penske after 17 years to join Andretti Global. The Australian racer shared the compelling financial reason behind his initial decision to pursue IndyCar instead of Formula 1, shedding light on his career path and choices.
The Early Racing Career and Shift from Formula 1 Aspirations
Will Power’s racing journey began in the Australian Formula Ford series and extended through both the Australian and British Formula 3 championships. In 2004, he tested with Minardi’s Formula 1 team and competed in the Renault World Series, a championship comparable to today’s Formula 2. His early career suggested a potential future in Formula 1, but in 2006, he opted to become a full-time driver in the Champ Car series, which later merged with IndyCar.
Power discussed his situation on the Racers Unchained podcast with IndyCar legend Paul Tracy, explaining the practical considerations behind his choice. At that time, racing in Europe required substantial financial backing and Power was already facing debt. On the other hand, an offer to race in Champ Car came with a salary, making it a more viable option.
“So I tested with Minardi in 2004 and then I did the world series by Renault, and that was going well. I was running second in the championship.”
— Will Power
Power emphasized that the Champ Car deal gave him the opportunity to earn money while racing, contrasting with the uncertainty and financial strain of trying to secure an F1 seat by continuing in GP2 (now F2). He reflected,
“At the same time, I had the offer to come and race Champ car, basically IndyCar and get paid. So it was either stay over there, find a million dollars, and race GP2 or get paid, while I was already in debt. I tested the champ car, and it was awesome. I was like, ‘I could get paid to do this’.”
— Will Power
Reconsidering Formula 1 After IndyCar Success and the Role of Team Penske
Although Power had firmly established himself in American open-wheel racing, questions remained about whether he pursued Formula 1 again. Paul Tracy brought up the possibility of an F1 opportunity in 2010, which Power acknowledged, recalling an offer influenced by Force India in F1. Despite this, Power chose to remain with Team Penske, where he had just finalized a full-time contract, recognizing the strength and stability of his situation there.
“I remember Townsend Bell calling me at one point. In 2010, he knew a lot of guys over there and he said, ‘you need to try and go to F1, I can talk to some guys.’ I think he talked to Force India for me and they said ‘need to get him on the simulator first’,” said Will Power
— Will Power
“But I just signed with Team Penske full time. Didn’t pursue it obviously but there were still thoughts of going there. But it’s just tough when you’re driving for the best team in the series,” he added
— Will Power
Notably, IndyCar driver Conor Daly had a connection to Force India as the team’s test driver in 2012. Force India eventually was taken over by Lawrence Stroll and rebranded as Aston Martin Racing, marking ongoing developments in the F1 constructor landscape relevant to Power’s reflections.
Significance of Will Power’s Career Choices and What Lies Ahead
Will Power’s decision to bypass the traditional Formula 1 path in favor of IndyCar highlights the complex financial and career considerations faced by professional drivers. His early choice to join IndyCar provided stability and payment during a financially challenging phase, allowing him to excel in a highly competitive series. His long tenure with Team Penske also illustrates the value of loyalty and alignment with top teams in shaping a successful racing career.
Now with his move to Andretti Global, Power enters a new chapter that may bring fresh opportunities and challenges. His story underscores the diverse routes that drivers navigate within motorsports and offers insight into the strategic decisions behind major career moves in racing.
