Will Power, a prominent figure in IndyCar, ended his long-standing partnership with Team Penske following the 2025 season after extended contract talks with Roger Penske and company did not reach a successful outcome. As Power transitions to Andretti Global, David Malukas has been selected to fill his seat at Team Penske, a move accompanied by strong warnings about the high standards the new recruit will face within one of the sport’s most decorated teams—a focus highlighted by those familiar with Team Penske expectations.
The conclusion of the 2025 season marked the end of Power’s active role with Team Penske, closing a chapter on a career with the organization that saw him secure significant victories and championships. Ahead of the final season, Power chose to enlist the services of Fernando Alonso’s A14 management group, bringing in former IndyCar driver Oriol Servia as his manager to help navigate the uncertain period following contract delays. It was only after the season’s last race that both parties confirmed their decision to part ways after an impressive seventeen-year collaboration.
David Malukas Steps in Following a Strong Season with AJ Foyt Racing
Stepping up as Power’s successor, David Malukas earned his seat at Team Penske after delivering a standout 2025 performance with AJ Foyt Racing, which maintains a technical partnership with Penske. As Malukas transitions into this high-pressure role, insights and direct commentary on what is expected at Team Penske have emerged, notably from Power’s manager, Oriol Servia.
During a recent episode of the Racer’s Debrief podcast, Servia openly discussed how expectations differ significantly at top organizations like Penske, referencing both seasoned professionals and rookies Dennis Hauger and Caio Collet. He stated,
“That’s why maybe going to a team that, of course, they want to perform and they (Hauger and Collet) expect it to do great. But it’s not the same situation you were talking about with Malukas at Penske, that there is the added pressure that, yes, you are expected to deliver. You’re not here to learn.”
– Oriol Servia, Manager
Servia emphasized the intensity of demands at elite teams, adding,
“When you get into one of the top four that we’re talking about, you are expected. Sorry, dude, if you skip a couple of years to get here, somehow, good for you, but I don’t care. You’re here to deliver 10 out of 10,”
added Servia. – Oriol Servia, Manager
These remarks underline the unique environment at Team Penske, which expects immediate high-level results from new arrivals without the luxury of gradual development. Malukas, after shining at AJ Foyt Racing, now faces the challenge of meeting these high benchmarks with the support structure and history of one of IndyCar’s most recognized organizations.
Power’s Move to Andretti Global Welcomed as a Positive Shift
With Will Power’s journey at Team Penske coming to a close, his arrival at Andretti Global is being viewed as a significant development for the team, especially with Colton Herta transitioning to roles in F1 and F2 for 2026. Bryan Herta, who is Colton’s father and continues to contribute at Andretti, publicly acknowledged that Power’s experience and winning record would bring about beneficial changes in team culture and performance.
“Now Will coming in is a different dynamic because here’s a guy who’s got 71 pole positions, championships, Indy 500 wins. He’s got a level of success and little bit of gravitas which comes with that’s going to change the dynamic within the team and I think that’ll be a positive. I’m not expecting that he’s going to come in and pull Kyle aside and coach him but I think his leadership by example on a guy who’s been there, done that achieved.”
– Bryan Herta, Andretti Global
David Malukas assumes control of the iconic #12 Chevrolet at Penske, previously helmed by Power, marking a new era for both driver and team. As longtime figures like Power transition to new challenges and fresh talent like Malukas faces the weight of Team Penske expectations, the 2026 IndyCar landscape is set for intense competition and evolving team dynamics.
This wave of changes not only affects the individuals involved but could also reshape the strategic approaches of their respective teams. How Malukas handles the instant demands at Penske and how Power influences Andretti Global will be central storylines as the new season unfolds.
