Andretti Global has appointed former Team Penske managing director Ron Ruzewski as Team Principal for its IndyCar and Indy NXT teams, marking a pivotal chapter in Team Penske leadership changes. This decision comes after Ruzewski, who was also Will Power’s race strategist, was dismissed earlier this year following a high-profile rules breach involving Team Penske entries at the 109th Indy 500.
TWG Motorsports unveiled the leadership move on September 24, just months after Roger Penske removed Ruzewski amid efforts to address the Indy 500 controversy and reinforce organizational integrity. Ruzewski’s extensive background with Team Penske, coupled with his leadership experience, positions him to guide Andretti Global into a new era in American open-wheel racing.
Background: Ruzewski’s Career and Departure from Team Penske
Ron Ruzewski began his career at Team Penske in 2005 as a race engineer and steadily climbed the ranks over more than two decades. His promotions included roles as technical director and then managing director, where he helped shape the team’s competitive strategy. However, in May, after a rules infraction was discovered on the Team Penske Indy 500 cars driven by Josef Newgarden and Will Power, both Ruzewski and Tim Cindric—his fellow strategist—were suspended by IndyCar authorities. The cars had illegally modified rear attenuators, resulting in $100,000 fines for each entry and relegation to the back of the starting grid.
This incident prompted Team Penske owner Roger Penske to take significant disciplinary action. Ruzewski, Cindric, and general manager Kyle Moyer were all dismissed as part of a wider shakeup. The rapid fallout highlighted the importance of accountability within motorsport teams competing at the highest levels.
Andretti Global’s Ambitious Restructuring
Andretti Global, supported by TWG Motorsports, confirmed that Ruzewski will succeed Rob Edwards, who will become Chief Performance Officer. Ruzewski’s appointment comes at a crucial time as Andretti Global seeks to enhance its prospects both in INDYCAR and the INDY NXT development series.
In the official statement, Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports, said,
“We are thrilled to welcome Ron Ruzewski to the TWG Motorsports family as the new Team Principal of Andretti Global. Ron’s impressive and successful career in motorsports brings a new perspective to our INDYCAR and INDY NXT teams. I have full confidence he will position the team strongly as we continue to build for the future.”
– Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports.
Ruzewski will integrate into his new role in January 2026, coordinating with team leaders Dan Towriss and Jill Gregory as Andretti Global moves to solidify its position after Michael Andretti’s exit as team leader. This leadership transition is envisioned to provide fresh direction and sustained competitive edge for the famed racing organization.
A Trend of Former Team Penske Leaders Joining Rivals
The repercussions of Team Penske leadership changes have extended beyond Ruzewski. Kyle Moyer, also dismissed after the Indy 500 investigation, joined Arrow McLaren as strategist for the No. 6 Chevy, driven by Nolan Siegel, just one month after leaving Penske. This trend underscores the high demand for seasoned motorsport leaders across the IndyCar paddock.
Will Power, another key name tied to recent changes, will also depart Team Penske after 17 years to join Andretti Global in 2026, replacing Colton Herta in the No. 26 Honda. These moves mark a significant reshuffling of talent following the scandal, amplifying rivalry among top teams and bringing renewed anticipation for future races.
Ruzewski’s Vision for Andretti Global
Ruzewski brings a wealth of technical and managerial experience to his new role, having worked closely with engineers, drivers, and strategists throughout his career. His leadership comes at a time when Andretti Global is focusing on winning more Indy 500s and championship titles, driving toward success in the “post-Michael Andretti” era that began with Andretti’s departure in September 2024.
Reflecting on his next chapter, Ron Ruzewski shared his anticipation for the role:
“I’m truly excited to be joining Andretti Global and becoming part of such a respected and ambitious organization,”
Ruzewski said in the press release.
“Andretti Global’s legacy in motorsport speaks for itself, and the team’s vision for the future, under the leadership of Dan [Towriss] and Jill [Gregory], is equally inspiring.”
– Ron Ruzewski, Team Principal, Andretti Global.
He continued,
“I look forward to collaborating with the talented group of engineers, drivers and staff across the organization as we push to achieve new levels of performance and success in INDYCAR and across the broader Andretti family of teams.”
– Ron Ruzewski, Team Principal, Andretti Global.
The Road Ahead for Andretti Global and the IndyCar Series
Ruzewski’s appointment signals that Andretti Global is investing in proven leadership and fresh vision to rethink strategy and culture. With key positions now filled by veterans from rival teams, the organization’s ongoing quest for racing glory appears reinvigorated. The arrival of Will Power and the appointment of Rob Edwards as Chief Performance Officer are expected to further boost the team’s performance initiatives.
This series of Team Penske leadership changes is likely to intensify competition in the IndyCar Series and could reshape team strategies heading into 2026. As Andretti Global readies itself for new challenges, racing fans and paddock insiders alike will be watching closely to see how these bold moves impact the championship race and the evolving landscape of American open-wheel motorsports.
