David Malukas, recently signed by Team Penske, earned his first-ever IndyCar pole position at the Phoenix Raceway event. The 24-year-old driver, stepping into a car with a notable history, paid homage to Will Power‘s legacy with the team during the post-qualifying press conference. Malukas’s achievement underlines his promising start in the #12 Verizon Chevrolet, a number deeply associated with Power’s IndyCar championships and Indy 500 victory.
Following in Will Power’s Footsteps as New #12 Chevrolet Driver
David Malukas was confirmed as Will Power’s successor at Team Penske for the 2026 season after Power concluded his remarkable 17-year tenure with the organization. Power originally joined Team Penske in 2009 from KV Racing Technology and quickly established a legacy by securing a pole position in only his second race for the team, at the Grand Prix of Long Beach. Mirroring this, Malukas took pole in just his second race with Team Penske, this time at Phoenix Raceway, affirming the continuation of the #12 car’s strong form.
During qualifying, Malukas delivered an impressive performance that saw him claim the top spot. Initially, Graham Rahal held the provisional pole until Malukas emerged with a fast lap in his first qualifying attempt. Two blistering laps secured his position at the front of the grid, placing him ahead of all competitors.
Josef Newgarden Narrowly Misses Pole Position
Josef Newgarden came closest to overtaking Malukas’s pole-winning lap, but fell short by just 0.8 mph. Despite multiple near misses in previous qualifying sessions over his career, Newgarden continues to search for that elusive pole milestone. His regular contention for pole positions underscores his competitive presence within the series, adding pressure to Malukas and other frontrunners.
Malukas Reflects on Pressure and Legacy with Team Penske
At the press conference, Malukas was asked about the pressures that come with driving for Team Penske. He acknowledged the significance of the team’s history and expressed excitement about embracing the challenge.
“Foe Team Penske it’s a special pressure and it’s one that I’m very excited to deal with. For me Team Penske has always been my dream. You’re going into a car that has a legacy.” – David Malukas, Driver
“The Verizon #12 car, throughout all these years, the history and obviously Will Power. What an incredible name and I grew up watching him on TV, there’s always pressure there. No matter where you’re at there is always a form of pressure. This one is one that I’m excited to deal with, one that I feel like I’m going to thrive in.” – David Malukas, Driver
Malukas Celebrates Breaking Through After Near Misses
After qualifying, Malukas conveyed joy at finally achieving pole position after numerous close calls in his young IndyCar career. He highlighted how track conditions appeared challenging but ultimately favored his performance.
“Oh, man, finally, I’m just so happy. We had so many P2s. The story of all of last season is we wait until the last few guys and then, boom, we get P2. But finally, we got it! I think the track got in our favor a little bit, it looked like it was getting a bit worse, but we got it. Feels so good.” – David Malukas, Driver
Will Power’s High-Speed Crash Ends Qualifying Session
Will Power suffered a significant crash during his qualifying attempt, hitting the barrier with an impact exceeding 50G. He was promptly transported to the infield medical center for evaluation and was subsequently cleared by the team, ensuring no major injuries. Power’s accident marked a dramatic moment at Phoenix Raceway, contrasting with Malukas’s breakthrough performance.
The Importance of This Milestone for Team Penske and Malukas
David Malukas’s pole position not only reflects his personal growth but also symbolizes the strong continuity within Team Penske as they transition from one iconic driver to another. Taking over a car number synonymous with success brings heightened expectations, yet Malukas’s early results indicate a capacity to honor that heritage. His readiness to embrace the associated pressures points to a promising future within the series.
With the 2025 IndyCar season unfolding, Malukas’s newfound momentum could prove critical as Team Penske aims to maintain its competitive edge. Fans and analysts will closely watch how he develops through upcoming races, while Josef Newgarden’s persistent quest for pole position and Will Power’s recovery from his crash remain key narratives to follow.
