Will Power Joins Andretti Global for the 2026 IndyCar Season
In an exciting development for the 2026 IndyCar season, Will Power is set to join Andretti Global, teaming up with fellow drivers Kyle Kirkwood and Marcus Ericsson. Power’s transition to the No. 26 Honda car comes as a result of the team’s decision to move Colton Herta to Europe, while also preparing for the Cadillac program in Formula 1, which is overseen by Andretti’s parent company.
Will Power boasts an impressive 20-year career in IndyCar, having been recognized as one of the top drivers for Team Penske since 2010. His remarkable achievements include ranking fourth in the all-time wins list within the series and holding the record for the most pole positions. These attributes are expected to significantly enhance Andretti’s competitiveness and consistency on the track. Although the specifics of Power’s contract remain undisclosed, his addition to the team marks a strategic move aimed at revitalizing Andretti’s performance in the IndyCar series.
Andretti’s Recent Challenges
Despite consistently contending for championship titles, Andretti Global has faced challenges in recent years when competing against formidable teams such as Chip Ganassi Racing, Team Penske, and, more recently, Arrow McLaren, which has made strides in the championship standings. The last time Andretti secured a championship title in IndyCar was in 2012, and their most recent victory at the prestigious Indianapolis 500 occurred in 2017. In contrast, Will Power experienced a triumphant moment in 2018 when he won the Indy 500 and secured his second championship title in 2022, following his first in 2014.
Power’s Excitement and Commitment
Expressing his enthusiasm about joining Andretti Global, Power said, "I am very excited to become a part of Andretti Global. I cannot thank Dan [Towriss], Jill [Gregory], and the entire team enough for this opportunity. Colton is someone I have admired for a long time; he has natural talent and will do a fantastic job in Europe. I look forward to following his progress and will do everything I can to honor the No. 26 car."
Power further emphasized his eagerness to integrate with the team, stating, "I can’t wait to meet everyone and start working in 2026. They have very smart people, and I know it will be rewarding to get back to winning. I’m also looking forward to driving for Honda. They have always been tough competitors, and I hope to collaborate with the entire HRC team. I have immense respect for Kyle [Kirkwood] and Marcus [Ericsson]; we have had great battles, and I believe we will make a great team together. This is a new chapter for me. Sometimes, a change of scenery and a fresh start can be incredibly energizing. I can’t wait."
Valuable Experience and Transition
Power’s extensive experience with top-tier teams and his 14 years utilizing the Chevrolet 2.2-liter twin-turbo engine will be invaluable assets for both Andretti and Honda Racing Corporation US. At 44 years old, many drivers might find it challenging to remain competitive as they approach the latter stages of their careers, particularly if they experience even a slight decline in performance. However, Power’s transition to a new team and a different engine manufacturer comes at a time when he continues to demonstrate his competitiveness. In 2025, he achieved one pole position, secured a victory, and delivered Penske’s best result in the championship, finishing ninth, ahead of Scott McLaughlin and three positions clear of Josef Newgarden.
This transition is more than just a lateral move; Power will take over the No. 26 car, which finished seventh in the drivers’ championship. Meanwhile, Kirkwood finished in fourth place, suggesting that Power has the potential to elevate his team’s standings on the grid.
A New Mentor for Young Talents
Power’s presence will also be beneficial for his teammates. Kirkwood, a rising star who led Andretti in 2025 with three victories and the best performance of his career, has yet to have the opportunity to learn from a champion like Power over an extended period.
Additionally, with Marcus Ericsson, another Indy 500 winner, Power steps into a mentorship role for a veteran who must improve from his 20th place finish to break into the top 10 of the championship standings if he hopes to extend his contract. Ericsson joined Andretti in 2024 to guide Herta and Kirkwood, but now he will have Power as a benchmark—similar to his experience with Scott Dixon at Ganassi, where he achieved some of his best results.
Acknowledging Colton Herta
Jill Gregory, COO of TWG Motorsports and president of Andretti Global, expressed gratitude towards Colton Herta, stating, "First, I want to thank Colton Herta for all the memories and the success he brought to Andretti Global. We are incredibly proud of him and wish him every success on his journey in F1. We couldn’t imagine a better driver than Will Power to step in for Colton and take on the No. 26 car. Will is a fierce competitor, and his track record speaks for itself. Furthermore, he has an excellent personality, and we believe he will culturally fit in well with our team."
Looking Ahead: The Future of Andretti Global
As the 2026 season approaches, the combination of Will Power, Kyle Kirkwood, and Marcus Ericsson presents a promising prospect for Andretti Global. Power’s wealth of experience, combined with Kirkwood’s youthful vigor and Ericsson’s seasoned insight, creates a powerful trio that could redefine the team’s dynamics and performance in the IndyCar series.
In summary, Will Power’s transition to Andretti Global is not just a significant change for him; it represents a strategic move for the entire team as they seek to regain their competitive edge in IndyCar. With the right blend of talent, experience, and determination, Andretti Global is poised for a resurgence in the upcoming seasons, and Power’s involvement is a crucial element in that journey.
