David Malukas has shared his perspective on the recent Team Penske IndyCar driver changes, which will see him replace Will Power at the iconic outfit for the 2026 season. The move follows team negotiations, with Malukas set to take over the No. 12 Chevy while Power moves to Andretti Global in a high-profile partnership beginning in 2026.
Will Power’s Move to Andretti Global and Team Penske’s Strategy
The switch at Team Penske emerged after the organization signed Malukas for 2025 and placed him at AJ Foyt Racing, driving the No. 4 Chevy. While the initial plan was not to swiftly transition for 2026, Team Penske, headed by Roger Penske, still offered Will Power a one-year extension. However, the 2018 Indy 500 winner decided against accepting, since discussions came later than he expected and did not align with his wish for a longer-term deal. Simultaneously, Power entered talks with Andretti Global, led by Dan Towriss, seeking a more committed multi-year agreement as Colton Herta was poised to leave for a Formula 1 opportunity.
The outcome of these talks resulted in Will Power joining Andretti Global on a multi-year agreement, while Malukas moved into the prominent Penske seat starting from the 2026 season. Speaking to The Detroit News about following in the footsteps of his racing hero, Malukas emphasized the magnitude of this change both personally and for the series as a whole.
“Will Power is a legend, and I watched him at Team Penske as a kid through the TV screen,” said Malukas. “I remember going on my little Razor scooter inside the house, and my mom was very upset. I was racing against Will Power. Fast forward, I get to race side-by-side with him in real life. I know he’s going to do fantastic things (at Andretti).”
Malukas’ First Experience with Team Penske and Career Highlights
David Malukas had his initial test for Team Penske in early October at World Wide Technology Raceway in St. Louis—a track that has been particularly favorable for him since his 2022 IndyCar debut. While driving for Dale Coyne Racing, he earned his first two career podiums there, establishing it as a milestone circuit in his development as a driver.
Insights on the Team Penske Environment
Malukas spoke about one of his favorite aspects of joining Team Penske, focusing on the organization’s work-life balance. He highlighted Roger Penske’s leadership style in maintaining competitiveness while ensuring drivers have meaningful time for their families.
“Team Penske has figured out a perfect unification of two different sides: You’re competitive, but at the same time, you’re family-oriented and can still have a very good time. It’s a really good mix,” Malukas said.
The culture within Team Penske has seen drivers such as Josef Newgarden, Scott McLaughlin, and Will Power manage long tenures and family life. Power’s 17-year association concluded this year, while Newgarden and McLaughlin are set to continue their own multi-year careers with the team, each balancing personal commitments with motorsport success.
Malukas’ Recent Performances and Upcoming Challenges
In his first year with AJ Foyt Racing in 2025, Malukas delivered a strong performance, including securing a podium finish at the Indianapolis 500. His efforts placed him competitively amongst Penske’s seasoned drivers in the championship standings, with Newgarden finishing just behind him. This trajectory sets the stage for Malukas as he takes on an even more significant role from 2026, aiming to contribute to Team Penske’s legacy.
The 2026 IndyCar season will commence with the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1. As the countdown to the season opener continues, fans and analysts alike are eager to observe how the Team Penske IndyCar driver changes, including Malukas’ new responsibilities and Power’s switch to Andretti, will impact the dynamics of the competition and shape narratives across the series.
With major driver transfers and new partnerships, the next chapter in IndyCar promises a blend of tradition and fresh challenges, marking a “full circle” moment for David Malukas and reflecting the ongoing evolution of the championship’s key contenders.
