Will Power’s win in Portland ended Team Penske’s nearly year-long IndyCar victory drought but did little to clear up the uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. The two-time IndyCar champion’s last win dates back to the Milwaukee doubleheader in September, making this victory a significant relief.
Although the win was somewhat overshadowed by Scott Dixon closing in on his fourth title with Chip Ganassi Racing, the spotlight remained on Power’s future. The 44-year-old driver was the top performer for Penske in what has been a turbulent season for the Chevrolet-powered team, which faced a major fraud scandal before the Indy 500 in May.
Despite strong on-track performances, Power has yet to secure a contract extension with Team Penske for 2026, indicating the possibility that he might not continue with the team that signed him for a full season back in 2010. Power himself has said he might have to wait until the end of the season, possibly beyond August 31, to learn about his contract status.
Even after a morale-boosting win for all Penske crew members at Portland, the 2018 Indy 500 champion remains uncertain about his future with the team. “I have no clue. I don’t know. Yeah, there’s nothing else to say,” Power admitted after the race.
When pressed further about what lies ahead, Power said, “I think it was really nice to win the race. I feel good for the whole team. Where we stand in the championship doesn’t really show our true potential. It’s been a tough year, especially for Chevrolet, but the team is happy and relieved with this victory.”
He acknowledged that the team made significant changes and improved the car, which might not be perfect for him but was competitive enough to finish in the top four. “It’s a good weekend, man,” he added.
Power also claims he is performing at the peak of his capabilities in IndyCar despite his age and that he still has more to offer Team Penske. Reflecting on his 43rd career victory, he said, “For me, it was just normal business. I’ve been in this position many times. I’m the best I’ve ever driven. I’m not slow; I’m faster. My toolbox is still big in terms of understanding cars and racecraft. I’m not going to stop working for it; it’s passion. That’s why I’m still winning.”
Jonathan Diatto, Team Penske’s newly promoted president, declined to comment on Power’s future, focusing instead on the team’s performance and victory. “Winning can do a lot. It’s very positive for our program. As we head toward Milwaukee, we will enjoy all the benefits of it,” he said.
Simon Pagenaud, 2016 IndyCar champion and 2009 Indy 500 winner for Penske, expressed his support for Power’s continuation with the team. “I want to congratulate Will Power and hope he continues here. He is an absolute legend and shows no signs of slowing down. Staying at the top level as he has is incredibly difficult,” Pagenaud wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I really hope Will powers a Verizon car for Team Penske next year. He’s still highly successful!”
Fan Take: This win is more than just a morale boost; it underscores Will Power’s enduring talent and the importance of experience in IndyCar. Racing fans should watch closely as Penske’s decision on Power’s future could shape the competitive landscape of the series for years to come.
