Team Penske signs David Malukas as its new No. 12 driver, marking a significant change in the IndyCar lineup for the upcoming season, as the team aims to build on its longstanding reputation in top-level motorsport. The announcement comes following Will Power’s departure, with Malukas stepping into a high-profile role within one of the sport’s most esteemed organizations.
Malukas to Step in for Will Power After 17 Seasons
David Malukas will take over the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet, succeeding Will Power, who has been a fixture at Team Penske for 17 years. Power will transition to Andretti Global in 2026, as Colton Herta leaves for a new opportunity as a Cadillac Formula 1 test driver and Formula 2 competitor. This reshuffling highlights the evolving landscape of American open-wheel racing.
Penske Organization Expresses Optimism in New Signing
“We are excited to add David Malukas as the next driver of the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet,”
– Roger Penske, Team Principal
“We feel that Team Penske will provide David everything needed to take the next step in his career, and we are confident that he will continue the great legacy of the Verizon Chevrolet.”
– Roger Penske, Team Principal
The team believes Malukas has the potential to build upon the achievements established by the No. 12 crew, reinforcing their pursuit of continued success.
Rapid Career Progress for Malukas Across Multiple Teams
Malukas has competed at the highest level of American open-wheel racing since 2022, progressing through several teams in a short span. His tenure includes stints with Dale Coyne Racing, Meyer Shank Racing, and A.J. Foyt Racing. Malukas had signed with Arrow McLaren for the 2024 season, but a hand injury during the offseason led to his exit before racing a single event.
Notable Results and Growing Promise
While Malukas is yet to claim his first IndyCar win, his career so far consists of three podium finishes, five top-five results, and 16 top-10s across 61 starts. His most impressive outing came in the most recent season, where he finished second at the Indianapolis 500 and secured 11th place in the overall points standings—showcasing both progress and potential for greater success with Team Penske.
Malukas Shares His Perspective on Joining Penske
“Racing for Team Penske is the goal for every young racecar driver, and I am honored to be one that gets to live out that dream,”
– David Malukas, Driver
“Will Power is one of the legends of our sport and the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet is one of the most-recognized cars on the grid. These are big shoes to fill, but I look at it as an opportunity because I know that it is one of the best teams in the paddock.”
– David Malukas, Driver
What This Means for the Upcoming IndyCar Season
The move places David Malukas in a pivotal role as Team Penske seeks to maintain its legacy in the IndyCar series, pairing talented drivers and seasoned leadership. With Andretti Global adjusting their driver lineup as Colton Herta pursues his Formula 1 ambitions, further changes across major teams are likely. The motorsport community will closely watch Malukas’s transition, as his performance could influence both his career and the ongoing dynamics of American open-wheel racing.
