ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Two-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion Will Power enters the 2026 season with a renewed focus, not just on extending his career with Andretti Global, but on etching his name further into the sport’s history books. Power, 42, has set his sights on reaching 50 career wins, a milestone achieved by only three drivers in INDYCAR history. The pursuit of this ambitious goal is a key driver behind his move to the new team, signaling a fresh chapter for the Australian veteran. This significant ambition is fueling his preparation for the upcoming season.
Power’s decision to join Andretti Global wasn’t simply about finding a new home; it was about opportunity. After 16 successful seasons with Team Penske, where he secured championships in 2014 and 2022, Power found himself evaluating his options. While Team Penske offered a one-year extension, discussions with Andretti Global had already progressed, offering a longer-term commitment. “I wanted to know what I could do on another team,” Power explained, according to INDYCAR.com. “Roger (Penske) gave me a great career…but I was pretty far down the road with Andretti Global at that point.”
The Quest for 50: A Historic Target
Reaching 50 career wins places Power in rarefied air. Currently, only A.J. Foyt (67 wins), Scott Dixon (59 wins), and Mario Andretti (52 wins) have reached that plateau. Power currently has 45 career wins, meaning he needs just five more to join this exclusive club. He believes a strong 2026 season could put him within striking distance. “That’s the goal, yeah,” Power said. “To get to 50 would be very nice. That’s possible, too.” He estimates needing “three wins this year, or four” to make significant progress toward his target.
Power’s consistent performance throughout his career suggests the goal is attainable. Since becoming a full-time driver in 2006, he has averaged 2.25 wins per season. His ability to win in multiple seasons – having won races in 18 of his 20 seasons – is a testament to his adaptability and skill, a record tied with Foyt and second only to Dixon’s 23 winning seasons.
A New Team, Familiar Challenges
Andretti Global presents a new environment for Power, but one he believes will be conducive to success. Last year, the team secured three wins, all with Kyle Kirkwood. Power’s own 2025 season included a victory at Portland while driving for Team Penske. The transition to Andretti Global is expected to be seamless, and Power is already considered a favorite for the season-opening Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, March 1. He’s a two-time winner of the event and holds the record for most pole positions at the track, with nine.
Beyond Wins: A Combined Legacy
Power’s ambition extends beyond just race wins. He’s also focused on increasing his combined total of series wins and pole positions. Currently, he stands at 116, with a record 71 poles. A.J. Foyt leads the all-time list with 120 (67 wins and 53 poles), followed by Mario Andretti with 119 (52 wins and 67 poles). Power’s impressive pole record gives him a unique opportunity to surpass both legends and establish a new benchmark in INDYCAR history.
The length of Power’s contract with Andretti Global remains undisclosed, but it’s typical for veteran drivers to receive a two-year deal with an option for a third. As he embarks on this new phase of his career, Power is driven by a desire to prove himself in a new environment and solidify his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in INDYCAR history. The 2026 season promises to be a compelling chapter in his already remarkable career, as he chases both individual milestones and team success.
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES season officially kicks off with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on March 1st. Fans can watch the race live on FOX, FOX One, FOX Deportes, the FOX Sports app, and the INDYCAR Radio Network. The race will be a crucial early test for Power and Andretti Global as they begin their pursuit of a championship and Power’s 50th career win.
Share your thoughts on Will Power’s move and his championship aspirations in the comments below.
