Will Power Team Penske future became a topic of renewed speculation after Power’s commanding win at Portland over the weekend, yet the Australian driver admitted the victory does not clarify his prospects with the legendary team. As questions persisted about his status, Power stated he remains in the dark, even as he delivered Team Penske’s sole race win of the IndyCar season so far.
Uncertainty Surrounding Power’s Place at Team Penske
The victory for the 44-year-old two-time series champion was both a personal triumph and a pivotal moment in a year filled with challenges. Despite securing a much-needed win, Power was forthright about the state of his contract, revealing he remains unsure if the result had any bearing on his relationship with owner Roger Penske, or on his future with the squad.
“I don’t know. Nothing else to say, man. I don’t know,”
Power explained. —Power, driver
Prior to the Portland race, Power had suggested he would have clarity about his contract by the end of August, regarding his status as a Team Penske driver for 2026. However, following the win, he made it clear that he still had “no clue” about what lies ahead.
Support from Peers After Landmark Win
Power received notable public support from Simon Pagenaud, a former Team Penske driver who himself was moved aside in 2021 to make way for Scott McLaughlin. Pagenaud took to social media to celebrate Power’s continued achievements, stating:
“I want to continue here by congratulating Will Power,”
Pagenaud wrote on X. —Simon Pagenaud, former Team Penske driver
Pagenaud praised Power’s resilience and sustained excellence in the sport, commenting on how rare it is for athletes to remain competitive at the very top level. He added his hope that Power would remain with Team Penske:
“I really hope we will see Will Power in the Verizon car next year with Team Penske. He still has more success ahead!”
—Simon Pagenaud, former Team Penske driver
Power’s Self-Belief Amid Ongoing Speculation
During post-race discussions, Power was candid about his current form, emphasizing that he is performing at his very best, regardless of speculation about his future. Having now become the only Team Penske driver to win a race this season, Power’s determination was clear:
“It’s what we expect at that team,”
Power explained. —Power, driver
He described the victory as business as usual, asserting that he has experienced similar pressures throughout his career. He went on to highlight what sets him apart from others in the sport:
“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, driver
The timing of his win was not lost on Power, given the backdrop of contract uncertainty, and he described the circumstances as “funny” and significant. Despite not knowing what the immediate future holds, Power emphasized his sense of satisfaction for both himself and his team, particularly following a difficult start to the year.
He recounted how practice sessions at Portland were challenging, requiring numerous adjustments, yet they managed to field a car capable of competing near the very front. By winning, Power delivered a needed boost to his crew, his sponsor, and Chevrolet during a season they have found difficult overall.
Asked about who ultimately controls his fate for 2026 and beyond, Power suggested the decision might in fact rest with him as much as with management. He pointed out his recent record, referencing three victories in the previous year, and suggested teams should clearly see his talent and value.
“It’s probably good on both fronts,”
said Power. —Power, driver
“If you’re actually waiting, I’m not sure if this guy is good enough, just go back to last year and you’ll f***ing know.”
—Power, driver
Team Penske Leadership Weighs In
In the post-race press conference, Team Penske president Jonathan Diuguid addressed questions about Power’s role going forward. Although he stopped short of making any concrete statements about Power’s future with the team, Diuguid acknowledged the significance of Power’s recent success:
“Will’s future is about 30 minutes old from winning a race,”
he said. —Jonathan Diuguid, Team Penske president
“His future’s definitely bright. He did an amazing job today. Looking forward to the last two races of the season.”
—Jonathan Diuguid, Team Penske president
Looking Ahead for Power, Team Penske, and the Series
As the team celebrates the hard-fought victory in Portland, the uncertainty around Will Power Team Penske future remains unresolved, with both parties appearing to maintain a wait-and-see approach. Power’s impressive performance has further stoked interest in how Team Penske will shape its driver roster in the months ahead. Interest is also high in his continued impact on the championship standings as the series moves on to the Milwaukee Mile on August 25, before concluding at Nashville Superspeedway on September 1.
For Team Penske, the return to winning form in a turbulent year offers renewed optimism and may serve as a turning point. For Power, the triumph highlights his status as one of the series’ standout drivers and keeps all eyes on what the future holds for both the athlete and the renowned organization.
