David Malukas Joins Team Penske as Will Power's Successor

Team Penske has officially announced that David Malukas will take over the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet for the 2026 NTT IndyCar Series season, succeeding two-time champion Will Power. This transition marks a significant moment in IndyCar history, as Power has been a fixture at Team Penske for 17 years, securing 42 wins, two championships, and an Indianapolis 500 victory during his tenure. Power's departure to Andretti Global follows unsuccessful contract negotiations, creating an opportunity for Malukas, who has been viewed as a potential successor for some time.

ESPNTeam Penske driver change 2026: Malukas replaces legend PowerTeam Penske Driver Change: Malukas Replaces Will PowerIndianapolis StarDavid Malukas Replacing Will Power at Team Penske: 'These are Big Shoes to Fill'Penske names IndyCar 2026 signing to replace PowerWIBC - Indy's Mobile News

David Malukas, a 23-year-old driver from Chicago, has had a varied career in IndyCar, racing for teams such as Dale Coyne Racing, Meyer Shank Racing, and A.J. Foyt Racing. He began his karting career in 2013 and won the INDY NXT Rookie of the Year award in 2019. His breakout season in 2021 saw him achieve seven victories and a series-record 16 podium finishes. In the 2025 season, Malukas finished 11th in the championship standings, highlighted by a second-place finish at the Indianapolis 500, which he inherited after a post-race disqualification of another competitor.

David Malukas to Drive Penske Entry After Power’s DepartureESPNDavid Malukas to Join Team Penske Beginning in 2026Indianapolis StarMalukas joins Penske's IndyCar squad as Power's replacementTeam Penske places David Malukas in the iconic #12 IndyCar entry for 2026

Roger Penske, the team owner, expressed enthusiasm about Malukas's addition, stating, "We are excited to add David Malukas as the next driver of the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet. 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." Malukas himself remarked, "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. 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."

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While the move has been largely welcomed, some critics question whether Malukas has sufficient experience to fill Power's shoes. Historically, Team Penske has favored drivers with more extensive records before promoting them to such high-profile positions. However, the team's management appears confident in Malukas's potential, citing his impressive performances and growth trajectory.

Team Penske Signs David Malukas in Bold IndyCar Shakeup

Malukas will make his debut with Team Penske at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1, 2026. As he steps into this iconic role, he will join established teammates Josef Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin. The motorsport community will closely monitor Malukas's performance as he aims to uphold the legacy of the No. 12 car and contribute to Team Penske's ongoing success in IndyCar racing.

Team Penske Driver Change: Malukas Replaces Will PowerWIBC - Indy's Mobile NewsDavid Malukas to Drive Penske Entry After Power’s DeparturePenske names IndyCar 2026 signing to replace PowerMalukas joins Penske's IndyCar squad as Power's replacementIndianapolis StarDavid Malukas Takes the Wheel of Team Penske’s Legendary #12 IndyCar for 2026 Season!

This transition not only signifies a new chapter for Malukas but also reflects the evolving landscape of IndyCar, with fresh talent stepping into prominent roles amidst the departure of seasoned veterans like Will Power.

Team Penske Signs David Malukas in Bold IndyCar Shakeup