Will Power’s recent win at Portland has brought new hope and uncertainty regarding his future with Team Penske. The Australian driver, despite securing a crucial victory, admitted he remains unsure about his long-term position with the team, reflecting ongoing questions about whether this success will solidify his role beyond 2025.
Power acknowledged that one win would not necessarily change his situation, stating,
“I don’t know. Nothing else to say, man. I don’t know,”
highlighting the ambiguity that surrounds his contract renewal.
Expectations and Timelines for Power’s Future in the Team
Before the Portland event, Power mentioned that he expected clarity regarding his Team Penske status by the end of August. This deadline suggests the team’s decision-making process is close, but Power remains cautious, emphasizing that victory alone does not guarantee a confirmed future.
Following the win, former Penske driver Simon Pagenaud expressed his support for Power’s continued presence with Team Penske. Pagenaud, who himself departed the team after the 2021 season, praised Power’s enduring performance and professional longevity.
On social media, Pagenaud said,
“I want to continue here by congratulating Will Power,”
and added,
“I really hope we will see Will Power in the Verizon car next year with Team Penske. He still has more success ahead!”
Power’s Performance at Portland Showcases His Peak Form
At 44 years old, Power delivered a defensive masterclass to secure the Portland victory, which stands out as the only win by a Team Penske driver this season. He emphasized that this success aligns with Team Penske’s high standards and his personal expectations for himself.
Power explained,
“It’s what we expect at that team,”
and elaborated,
“To me it was business as normal, honestly. I’ve been in that position so many times in my career.”
He asserted that he is operating at his best, saying,
“I’m driving the best I ever have. Simple as that. I’m not slowing down. I am not slower, I am faster.”
Regarding his ongoing motivation, Power said,
“That’s me. I guess I’m different to some people. I never stop working at it. It’s a passion. I love it. That’s why I’m still winning.”
Mixed Emotions About the Timing of the Win
Power found it somewhat ironic that the win came during such a critical time in his career, amid uncertainties about his future. He described the experience as rewarding for the entire team but also acknowledged the broader challenges they have faced this year.
Reflecting on the season’s difficulty, Power said,
“I feel good for the whole team, I really do. Where we stand in the championship really isn’t indicative of our true potential. It’s just been a rough year.”
He also noted the struggles faced by Chevy as an engine supplier, expressing relief that the victory provided some positivity for everyone involved.
Power added that despite a challenging start to the Portland weekend, the team’s adjustments allowed them to compete strongly, saying,
“It’s a good weekend, man.”
Uncertainty Over Who Will Decide Power’s Future
When questioned about who holds the decision regarding his place with Team Penske, Power was ambiguous but hinted that the choice might be his own. He stressed his credentials and recent successes, implying that any doubts about his competitiveness should be reconsidered.
He remarked,
“It’s probably good on both fronts,”
and recalled his performance last year with three wins, saying,
“If you’re a team, if you’re waiting on me to know if I’m good enough, I don’t know what you’re thinking.”
He finished emphatically,
“If you’re actually waiting, I’m not sure if this guy is good enough, just go back to last year and you’ll f***ing know.”
Team Penske Responds Cautiously on Power’s Future
Team Penske’s president, Jonathan Diuguid, addressed the topic during the post-race press conference but stopped short of fully confirming Power’s position with the team. Instead, he praised Power’s recent performance and hinted at a positive outlook.
Diuguid said,
“Will’s future is about 30 minutes old from winning a race,”
adding,
“His future’s definitely bright. He did an amazing job today. Looking forward to the last two races of the season.”
Upcoming Races and What Lies Ahead
The IndyCar series will continue with the Milwaukee Mile race on August 25 (AEST) before concluding the season at Nashville Superspeedway on September 1 (AEST). These events present further opportunities for Power to prove his ongoing value to Team Penske and possibly influence decisions about his contract beyond the current year.
The significance of Power’s Portland win goes beyond one race result—at a time when uncertainty looms, it demonstrates his enduring skill and determination, keeping open the possibility of a future with Team Penske while offering the team and fans renewed optimism.