Conor Daly has spoken out about the potential for rising star Rinus Veekay to secure an IndyCar seat with Team Penske, which currently has an open spot for the 2026 season. This vacancy comes as two-time IndyCar champion Will Power approaches the final year of his contract with the Roger Penske-owned outfit. Daly’s support for Veekay centers on the Dutch driver’s impressive breakthrough this season with Dale Coyne Racing, which he believes warrants consideration by a top-tier team like Penske.
Will Power remains the favorite to keep his seat in the No. 12 car, as he continues to perform strongly this year. Nevertheless, rumors suggest David Malukas of AJ Foyt Racing may also be in the mix for the position. Despite these speculations, Daly has firmly placed his backing behind Veekay, emphasizing the young driver’s talent and potential impact.
On his Speed Street podcast, Daly remarked:
“I know people talk about David Malukas going to Penske. Put Rinus there. Put Rinus in the 12 (Power’s car).” —Conor Daly, IndyCar driver and podcast host
Shortly after, Daly clarified his stance, acknowledging Power’s deserved place with the team while stressing that Veekay equally merits a seat with a leading squad:
“Actually, I don’t want anyone to get fired from Penske. I don’t think Will Power deserves to be out of there. Will Power should be there. But if there’s anyone that should get a top seat, Rinus Veekay is the guy, one million percent. I hope we see it. I think Rinus is an absolute weapon behind the wheel. He’s very talented.” —Conor Daly, IndyCar driver and podcast host
Rinus Veekay’s Performance Highlights His Readiness for a Top Team Seat
Rinus Veekay’s recent performance at the Indy Toronto race on July 20 showcased his rising status within the series. Driving the No. 18 Honda, Veekay started in ninth position but quickly rose to lead the race following several early cautions. His commanding presence at the front was challenged only by Pato O’Ward’s Arrow McLaren crew, which executed a flawless overcut, ultimately denying Veekay a possible victory.
This podium finish was significant for multiple reasons. It marked Veekay’s first IndyCar podium after 60 starts and ended a two-year podium drought for Dale Coyne Racing. Meanwhile, Conor Daly, who also competed at Toronto, struggled during the weekend, unable to make a two-stop strategy succeed.
Rinus Veekay Awaits Clarity on Will Power’s Future Before Finalizing His Own Path
As one of the latest signings for the 2025 IndyCar season, Rinus Veekay is positioned as a key figure in the driver market for 2026. However, his next move depends heavily on Will Power’s decision regarding his future with Team Penske. Veekay has acknowledged that while he and Dale Coyne Racing are eager to continue their partnership, he remains open to other prospects as his market value grows.
Discussing his current status during Daly’s podcast, Veekay stated:
“Of course, Dale and me too are very interested in working with each other again in the future and next year. But I need to see what my options are right now. My stock has been pretty good. It’s gone up quite considerably. You know, I am hearing some chatter around, but it’s still not clear what the silly season is gonna bring.” —Rinus Veekay, IndyCar driver
Veekay also referred directly to Power’s contract situation, noting the importance of Power’s upcoming decision:
“I think we’re all waiting for Will Power to make his move. That’s gonna shuffle the board game.” —Rinus Veekay, IndyCar driver
Will Power is preparing to re-enter contract negotiations with Team Penske founder Roger Penske in August 2024. The outcome of these discussions is expected to influence driver movements and inject momentum into the 2026 season’s driver market.
Implications for Team Penske and the IndyCar Landscape
The potential reshuffling of seats within Team Penske underscores a critical phase for the team as it balances veteran experience and emerging talent. Will Power’s contract status will likely trigger a cascade of decisions that could open the door for Veekay or other contenders like David Malukas. The push from established drivers like Conor Daly adds pressure on team management to recognize and reward rising stars capable of maintaining Penske’s competitive edge.
For Rinus Veekay, securing a seat with a high-profile team such as Penske represents both recognition of his progress and an opportunity to further elevate his career in IndyCar. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on the negotiations and announcements that will shape the grid and influence the sport’s competitive dynamics.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Rinus VeeKay?
A. In the 2025 Indy 500, Rinus VeeKay crashed while on pit road. The accident occurred at the Indianapolis 500 during Lap 80. The Dutch driver was preparing for his third pit stop when he lost control entering pit road.
Q. Who does Rinus VeeKay race for?
A. Rinus VeeKay had another strong performance in 2025, finishing second in the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy Toronto race. This was the best result for VeeKay in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES since he also came in second at Belle Isle Park in 2021.