“I LOST FAITH, HE DIDN’T RESPECT US,” Will Power revealed about his goal of returning to Daytona 24 after his “spectacular” podium performance in his highly anticipated debut, and disclosed his reasons for rejecting Team Penske’s offer.
In the aftermath of a thrilling Rolex 24 at Daytona that saw Porsche Penske Motorsport secure a historic third consecutive overall victory, one of the standout stories emerged from the GTD Pro class. Australian IndyCar veteran Will Power, making his long-awaited debut in the prestigious endurance event, delivered a remarkable performance by guiding the all-Australian 75 Express Mercedes-AMG GT3 to a strong second-place finish in the class. The result marked a spectacular podium in what was Power’s first-ever appearance at Daytona International Speedway in any capacity, capping off an emotional and transformative start to his 2026 season.
Power, who turns 45 on March 1—the opening day of the IndyCar season—approached the Rolex 24 with a mix of excitement and reflection. After 17 loyal years with Team Penske, where he amassed two championships (2014 and 2022), 45 IndyCar wins (42 with the team), and the 2018 Indianapolis 500 triumph, the Australian driver found himself in uncharted territory. Late in the 2025 season, amid uncertainty over his future, Power chose to reject a contract offer from Roger Penske and instead signed with Andretti Global. The move stemmed from deep-seated frustrations over how his departure was handled.
Speaking candidly in recent interviews surrounding his Daytona debut, Power expressed profound disappointment in the lack of transparency and respect he felt from his longtime employer. He described being left in limbo for much of the 2025 campaign, despite earlier promises of contract discussions that never materialized in a timely manner. The team, prioritizing youth and longevity, opted for 24-year-old David Malukas as his replacement—a decision Power understood on a business level but felt was executed without adequate regard for his years of dedication.
“I lost faith,” Power admitted, adding pointedly that “he didn’t respect us.” The “us” referred not only to himself but to the loyalty he and his family had invested in the organization over nearly two decades.
This sentiment fueled Power’s determination to prove his detractors wrong. Joining Andretti Global, now under new ownership and leadership focused on revitalizing the team, offered him a fresh challenge and a leadership role. Yet the transition came with immediate adjustments. Power spent time in the Honda simulator to prepare for the IndyCar side, but the Daytona commitment—while rewarding—meant diverting focus from building chemistry with his new engineers ahead of the IndyCar opener.
The Rolex 24 itself provided a fitting stage for Power to showcase his enduring talent. Delayed debut plans in prior years—once due to his wife’s serious health scare—added extra significance to his arrival at the 3.56-mile road course. Teaming with fellow Australians in the 75 Express entry owned by Kenny Habul, Power adapted quickly to the GT3 machinery and the demands of endurance racing. The event featured intense competition across classes, with a record crowd witnessing Porsche Penske’s three-peat in the top GTP category, led by Felipe Nasr in a dramatic close-fought finish against Cadillac.
Power’s second-place result in GTD Pro highlighted his versatility. Despite the Mercedes-AMG not securing the class win—taken by Paul Miller Racing’s BMW—the podium stood as a testament to his skill in traffic management, strategy, and consistency over 24 grueling hours. Fans in the fan zone greeted him warmly, many clutching die-cast models of his iconic No. 12 Penske car, a symbol of his past glory. Power signed autographs and soaked in the appreciation, a stark contrast to the uncertainty that had plagued him months earlier.
Reflecting on the experience, Power emphasized how the race reignited his passion while underscoring his resolve for the year ahead. The podium was “spectacular” not just for the result but for what it represented: a successful step outside his comfort zone and a signal that age has not diminished his competitive edge. He has repeatedly stated his primary goal for 2026 is to outperform Team Penske at every opportunity, turning personal disappointment into professional motivation.
The rejection of Penske’s offer—a reportedly short-term extension—allowed Power to seek a more secure path. While Penske’s decision aligned with building for the future, it left scars. Power has described the final months of 2025 as filled with animosity, a far cry from the security and mutual respect he once enjoyed. Spurning the offer did not sit well with Roger Penske, but Power held firm, prioritizing long-term stability over a brief stay.
Now at Andretti, Power brings veteran leadership to a squad aiming to climb back to contention. His Daytona success offers early proof that the switch could pay dividends. The endurance debut also served as a bridge between his open-wheel roots and broader motorsport horizons, proving he remains adaptable and hungry.
As the motorsport world shifts focus to the upcoming seasons, Power’s story stands out as one of resilience. From the pain of an unceremonious exit to the thrill of a hard-earned podium, he has channeled frustration into fuel. The Rolex 24 was more than a race for him—it was a declaration. With his faith tested but not broken, Will Power is ready to make his former team regret letting him go, one victory at a time.
