Will Power recently announced a major shift in his racing career: he will join Andretti Global, taking over the No. 26 Honda from Colton Herta. This move comes after spending 17 years with Team Penske.
Power, a two-time IndyCar champion and Indianapolis 500 winner, is excited about this new chapter. “Sometimes a change of scenery can be refreshing,” he shared. He decided to leave Penske after feeling stalled in contract negotiations, especially after securing a significant win for the team earlier this year.
Joining Andretti, Power steps into a role where he’s expected to be a leader. He will be alongside Marcus Ericsson and Kyle Kirkwood in a revamped lineup aimed at making Andretti a dominant force in IndyCar.
Jill Gregory, COO of Andretti Global, expressed confidence in Power’s capabilities. She stated, “Will is a fierce competitor, and he fits well with our team culture.” Power has achieved remarkable milestones in IndyCar, holding the record for most pole positions with 71 and ranking fourth for career wins with 45.
As Power transitions to Andretti, there’s a relevant context: this change reflects a broader trend in sports where athletes move for fresh opportunities, often leading to exciting team dynamics. For example, recent data shows that over 30% of professional athletes switch teams each year. This not only affects team performance but also fan engagement, as new rivalries and alliances unfold.
Despite his age—turning 45 at the season’s start—Power remains a strong contender. It’s also noteworthy that he experienced a challenging year when his wife faced severe health issues, impacting his performance.
Power’s move is also significant for the automotive brands involved. General Motors, which has benefitted greatly from Power’s talents, now loses a key asset to Honda, a rival boasting a roster of successful drivers, including six-time series champion Scott Dixon.
Looking forward, Power is eager to collaborate with his new team and is prepared for the 2026 season. “I can’t wait to get to work and contribute to the team’s success,” he said.
In summary, Will Power’s shift to Andretti Global marks not just a personal milestone but also a noteworthy moment in the evolving landscape of motor racing.
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Will Power, Kyle Kirkwood, Automobile racing, NC State Wire, Michigan, IndyCar, North Carolina, Auto Racing, IN State Wire, Indiana, Sports, David Malukas, Roger Penske, Dan Towriss, Scott Dixon, Jill Gregory, Mario Andretti
