Will Power’s New Chapter with Andretti Global in IndyCar

In a significant shift in the world of IndyCar racing, Will Power, a prominent figure in the sport, has recently announced his transition to Andretti Global for the 2026 season. This decision comes just a day after concluding his impressive 17-year tenure with Team Penske, where he established himself as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Power, a two-time IndyCar champion, will take over the No. 26 Honda, stepping into the role previously held by American driver Colton Herta.

Colton Herta’s Move to Formula 1

Colton Herta’s departure from IndyCar marks a noteworthy moment in the racing landscape. Herta, who finished seventh in the championship standings for the 2025 season, will be pursuing his ambition in Formula 1 as an official test driver for the Cadillac F1 Team. Although Herta did not secure any wins in 2025, his performance in the previous season, where he clinched two victories and ended as the championship runner-up, showcased his considerable talent.

Jill Gregory, the Chief Operating Officer of TWG Motorsports and president at Andretti Global, expressed her gratitude towards Herta for his contributions to the team. “First, I want to thank Colton Herta for all the great memories and success he brought to Andretti Global during his time with the team," she stated. "We’re incredibly proud of him and wish him the best in his new F1 journey."

Will Power’s Impressive Career

At 44 years old, Will Power has carved out an impressive legacy in IndyCar racing. With a remarkable total of 45 career victories, he ranks fourth on the all-time wins list, a testament to his skill and determination. Additionally, Power holds an unparalleled record of 71 pole positions, further solidifying his place in the annals of IndyCar history.

Power’s accolades extend beyond mere numbers; he is a two-time champion, having secured his titles in 2014 and 2022. His crowning achievement also includes winning the prestigious Indianapolis 500 in 2018, a race that stands as a highlight in any driver’s career. As he joins Andretti Global, a team that has not celebrated an IndyCar title since 2012, Power brings a wealth of experience and a competitive spirit that could reignite the team’s championship aspirations.

During the 2025 season, Power concluded the year in ninth place in the final points standings. His performance was notable as he was among only six drivers, aside from Alex Palou, to reach Victory Lane, underscoring his continued competitiveness in the series.

Excitement for the Future

In a statement released by Andretti, Power expressed his excitement about joining the team. "I just want to say how excited I am to be joining Andretti Global," he remarked. "I can’t thank Dan [Towriss], Jill [Gregory], and the team enough for this opportunity. Colton is someone that I’ve been massively impressed with for a while. He has a lot of natural ability, and I think he’s going to do a great job over in Europe. I’m excited to watch him and will work to step in and do everyone on the 26 team proud."

Power’s enthusiasm for the new opportunity is palpable. He looks forward to collaborating with the talented individuals at Andretti and is eager to get to work in 2026. "They have some very smart people, and I know it will be enjoyable to get to winning," he said. His appreciation for Honda, the engine manufacturer he will be driving for, reflects his competitive nature. "They’ve been a tough competitor, and I look forward to working with the entire HRC team."

In discussing his new teammates, Power mentioned his respect for Kyle Kirkwood and Marcus Ericsson, highlighting the strong competitive spirit within the team. "I’ve had some great battles racing against them, and I think we’re going to make a great combination as teammates," he stated. This camaraderie is essential in a team environment, where collaboration can significantly impact performance on the track.

A Fresh Start

For Power, this transition to Andretti Global represents a new chapter in his illustrious career. He acknowledged that sometimes a change of scenery can be invigorating, stating, "I have to say that sometimes a change of scenery and a fresh start is very energizing. I can’t wait." This sentiment resonates with many athletes who embrace new challenges as a means to reignite their passion and drive.

As Power prepares for this new journey with Andretti, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this move will impact both his career and the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons. The blend of Power’s experience and the potential of the Andretti team could create a formidable combination capable of challenging for race wins and possibly even a championship.

The Impact of Team Dynamics

Team dynamics play a pivotal role in the success of any racing organization. With Power’s arrival, Andretti Global may experience a shift in team culture and performance. The infusion of a seasoned driver like Power can elevate younger talents, fostering a competitive environment that encourages teamwork and collaboration.

Moreover, Power’s extensive knowledge of race strategy, car setup, and tire management will be invaluable to the Andretti team. His ability to mentor younger drivers and share insights gained from years of racing experience could prove beneficial as the team seeks to improve its standing in the championship.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season

The 2026 IndyCar season promises to be an exciting one, especially with Power’s entry into the Andretti fold. Fans can anticipate thrilling races as Power and his new teammates work together to harness their collective strengths. The synergy between experienced drivers and emerging talents will be essential for the team’s success.

As the season approaches, the focus will shift to how well Power adapts to his new surroundings and how quickly he can establish a rapport with his teammates. The combination of Power’s proven track record and the ambitious goals of Andretti Global sets the stage for a compelling narrative in the world of IndyCar racing.

Conclusion

The announcement of Will Power joining Andretti Global marks a significant moment in IndyCar history. With his remarkable accomplishments and competitive spirit, Power is poised to make a substantial impact on the team. As he takes on this new challenge, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how this dynamic unfolds in the upcoming seasons. The excitement surrounding this transition underscores the ever-evolving landscape of motorsport and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for both drivers and teams alike.