In a significant shift within the IndyCar landscape, Team Penske has officially signed David Malukas to a multiyear contract, announcing the 23-year-old as the new driver for the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet beginning in the 2026 season. This strategic move comes as longtime Penske driver Will Power transitions to Andretti Global after a remarkable 17-year tenure with the team.
Team owner Roger Penske expressed enthusiasm about welcoming Malukas to the team, stating, "We are excited to add David Malukas as the next driver of the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet. We feel that Team Penske will provide David everything needed to take the next step in his career, and we are confident that he will continue the great legacy of the Verizon Chevrolet."
Malukas' career has experienced a notable evolution since he started racing at the highest levels of American open-wheel competition in 2022. The upcoming season will see him driving for his fourth team in just five years, including stints at Dale Coyne Racing, Meyer Shank Racing, and A.J. Foyt Racing. Although he had signed with Arrow McLaren for the 2024 season, an offseason hand injury led to his departure from that team.
Despite not having secured a win so far in IndyCar, Malukas has demonstrated considerable potential, with three podium finishes, five top-five results, and a total of 16 top-10 finishes over 61 career starts. His 2023 season marked a personal best, highlighted by a second-place finish in the prestigious Indianapolis 500 and concluding the year ranked 11th in the championship standings. "Racing for Team Penske is the fulfillment of a dream for me," said Malukas. "This is a team with a rich heritage and a winning culture, and I am honored to be part of it."
As Malukas steps into a role that has been held by a stalwart like Power, expectations will be high. Power himself has established an impressive legacy, and his departure opens a new chapter not only for him but for Malukas as well. "I am excited about my future with Andretti Global and the new challenges that await," Power mentioned. "But I have no doubt that David will bring his talent and determination to the No. 12 car."
The upcoming season promises an intriguing landscape within IndyCar, as teams adapt to these changes in driver lineups and strategize for continued success on the track. With the potential of Malukas shining brightly, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he embarks on this new journey at Team Penske.
The Penske organization’s commitment to nurturing young talent like Malukas reflects a broader trend in motorsports, where teams are increasingly willing to invest in promising drivers to build winning legacies for the future. As he prepares for the 2026 season, Malukas will be equipped with resources and experience unparalleled in the racing world, presenting a formidable challenge to established competitors.
Looking ahead, the combination of Malukas' youthful energy and the seasoned excellence of Team Penske creates an exciting narrative for the forthcoming seasons in IndyCar. As the team gears up for what promises to be a dynamic chapter, the racing community anticipates what Malukas will bring to the legendary No. 12 car.
