Inside the Future of TWG Motorsports: Insights from CEO Dan Towriss

In the latest episode of the Off Track podcast, hosted by motorsport personalities James Hinchcliffe and Alexander Rossi, listeners received an in-depth look into the future of IndyCar and Formula 1 from Dan Towriss, the CEO of TWG Motorsports. Under the umbrella of Andretti Global, Towriss shared insights into the 2025 season, the lessons learned in motorsport, and made significant announcements about changes coming in 2026, including Colton Herta’s transition to F1 and Will Power stepping into the #26 Andretti car.

Reflecting on the 2025 Season: Highs and Lows for Andretti

Towriss began by reflecting on the recently concluded 2025 season, which saw its share of challenges for the Andretti team. "It was a tough year for Andretti. We experienced both highs and lows. We demonstrated speed on the track, but unfortunately, we lost races due to pit stop errors and questionable decisions. Nevertheless, I take immense pride in the progress our team has made and the talented individuals we have on board. Now, it’s time to build towards 2026," he stated.

The 2025 season was a mixed bag for the team, highlighting the competitive nature of IndyCar racing. The combination of speed and missteps created a learning environment, allowing the team to identify areas for improvement as they move forward.

Journey from Church to the Pits: Towriss’s Unique Entry into Motorsport

Towriss also shared an interesting anecdote about how he first got involved in motorsports. His initial introduction was through Pastor Aaron Brockett from Trader Point Church, who put him in touch with then-driver Zach Veach. "It wasn’t a sponsorship request. Zach genuinely sought advice. I told him, ‘I don’t sponsor race cars, so feel free to speak openly.’ However, I was impressed by his story and wanted to assist. This opened many doors for me," Towriss reminisced.

His passion for racing eventually led him to invest as a sponsor, then as a partner with Andretti, until he became a co-owner and a key figure in the team’s management. This journey underscores how unique connections and a passion for the sport can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Colton Herta’s Leap to Formula 1: A Bold Move

The most anticipated announcement came midway through the conversation. Towriss revealed that Colton Herta would be leaving Andretti to take on a role as a test and development driver for Cadillac in F1 in 2026, with a prior stint in Formula 2. "It’s time for Colton to take a risk. He won’t be going straight to F1, but he will learn about the tracks and tires in Formula 2. I am very proud of his courage to embrace this challenge. He could have stayed comfortable in Indy, but he chose a more difficult path," said Towriss.

Towriss emphasized the qualities that he believes are crucial for Herta’s success in Europe. "He has always excelled in high-speed corners, adapts quickly, sees different lines, and manages tires well. These skills will be essential as he transitions to the European circuits," he noted.

A New Heavyweight: Will Power Joins Andretti for 2026

With Herta’s departure, Andretti is set to welcome a new heavyweight for 2026: Will Power, a two-time IndyCar champion and winner of the Indy 500. "I considered holding onto Colton because filling that space would be challenging. But at Road America, Roger (Penske) allowed Will to speak with other teams, and he came to me expressing his desire to race for us. It was almost a fortunate coincidence," Towriss shared.

Power has signed a multi-year contract to drive the #26 Honda. "I discovered an intense side of him, almost like an engineer. He still feels he has a lot to prove in Indy, which excites me," Towriss added. The addition of Power is poised to bring a wealth of experience and determination to the Andretti team as they look to enhance their performance in the upcoming seasons.

The Three-Year Battle to Enter Formula 1: Behind the Scenes of Cadillac’s Journey

In addition to the IndyCar developments, Towriss opened up about the challenging negotiations that led Cadillac to enter Formula 1. "Hearing people like Greg Maffei from Liberty Media say there wouldn’t be an 11th team was devastating. We already had cars in the wind tunnel and had invested $150 million. However, it’s during these pressure moments that solutions emerge. Pressure creates diamonds," he emphasized.

His insights reveal the resilience and determination that have characterized the push for Cadillac’s entry into F1, showcasing the strategic maneuvers that were necessary to overcome significant hurdles in the motorsport landscape.

Andretti and TWG’s Ambitious Future: A Vision for Performance

The episode concluded with Hinchcliffe and Rossi expressing their gratitude to Towriss for his boldness and vision. Between the realms of F1 and IndyCar, the executive made it clear that strategic decisions are always guided by the same principle: building high-performance teams with the right people.

As the 2026 season approaches, Andretti is set to witness historic changes with Colton Herta paving his way in Europe toward Formula 1 and Will Power embarking on a new chapter of his career within the Andretti structure. This new trajectory for both drivers will undoubtedly shape the future of the team and the broader motorsport arena.

The Evolving Landscape of Motorsports and Its Challenges

The motorsports landscape is continually evolving, with teams facing new challenges and opportunities. As Towriss emphasized, the ability to adapt and learn from past experiences is crucial for any team aiming to succeed in such a competitive environment. The transition of drivers like Herta and Power signifies a broader trend where talent is recognized and nurtured across different racing formats, enhancing the overall quality and competitiveness of the sport.

Embracing Change in a Competitive Environment

Change is a constant in the world of motorsports. Teams must be willing to embrace new strategies, technologies, and talents to remain competitive. The entry of drivers like Herta into F1 represents not only a personal journey for the athlete but also a significant development for Andretti and the motorsport community at large.

The Importance of Strategic Partnerships

The partnerships formed within the motorsport ecosystem are vital. Whether it’s securing sponsorships, forming alliances with manufacturers, or collaborating with other teams, these relationships can significantly impact a team’s success. Towriss’s journey from sponsor to team leader highlights the importance of networking and building strong connections within the industry.

The Role of Youth in Shaping the Future of Racing

The emergence of young talents in motorsports is reshaping the future of racing. As teams invest in youth development, the sport is becoming more dynamic and competitive. The experiences of drivers like Herta serve as an inspiration for aspiring racers, illustrating that with determination and the right opportunities, success is attainable on the world stage.

Looking Ahead: The Next Generation of Motorsports

As we look to the future, the evolving dynamics of motorsports promise exciting developments. With established veterans like Will Power and rising stars like Colton Herta, the competition will continue to intensify. Teams will need to be strategic, agile, and innovative to navigate the challenges ahead and capitalize on emerging opportunities within the racing landscape.

In conclusion, the insights shared by Dan Towriss about TWG Motorsports and its future trajectory illustrate the complex yet thrilling world of motorsports. As the landscape continues to change, the commitment to building high-performance teams and nurturing talent remains at the forefront of the industry. The upcoming seasons will undoubtedly be filled with excitement, challenges, and breakthroughs as the world of racing evolves, capturing the hearts of fans and athletes alike.