Josef Newgarden: 2026 IndyCar Return Plan

Josef Newgarden faces the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season following a challenging 2025, marking his lowest championship finish – 12th place – since joining Team Penske in 2017. While a victory at Nashville Superspeedway propelled him four positions in the final standings, the season represented a significant downturn for the veteran driver.

A Season of Struggle for Team Penske

Newgarden’s performance mirrored a broader struggle within Team Penske. The organization secured only two wins throughout the 2025 season, the fewest since 2007. A total of 15 ‘did not finish’ results were recorded across its three drivers, the highest number since 1998.

Did You Know? Will Power’s victory at Portland International Raceway on August 10th was Team Penske’s first win of the 2025 season.

Internal Changes and a New Structure

The 2025 season wasn’t solely defined by on-track performance. Significant organizational changes occurred following rules infractions at the Indianapolis 500 in May, leading to the release of Tim Cindric, Ron Ruzewski, and Kyle Moyer. Jonathan Diuguid was subsequently appointed president, and Travis Law became competition director in July. Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin both acknowledged it took until August for the team to adapt to the new structure.

Despite the initial disruption, Team Penske demonstrated improvement, winning two of the final three races. For 2026, Luke Mason will continue as Newgarden’s race engineer, with Diuguid serving as strategist. Cindric has been brought back to the organization as McLaughlin’s strategist.

A Shift in Persona

Newgarden appears to be embracing a more aggressive mindset heading into the new season. A recent commercial for FOX Sports portrays him as a formidable competitor, declaring, “There’s a Lex Luthor…We are the Evil Empire about to strike.” He echoed this sentiment, stating, “We’re coming full attack.”

Expert Insight: The shift in Newgarden’s public persona, coupled with the team’s internal restructuring, suggests a deliberate attempt to re-establish dominance and project confidence after a difficult season.

Looking Ahead

Despite the changes, Newgarden emphasized a sense of continuity, stating, “It feels like business as usual in a lot of respects.” He anticipates subtle adjustments to team processes, particularly in debriefing and communication. The driver lineup has also been altered, with David Malukas replacing the departing Will Power, who had been with Penske since 2009 and achieved 43 of his 45 career wins with the team.

With 232 career starts, Newgarden now becomes the most experienced driver in the Penske lineup, a role he acknowledges. He stated, “I am the old guy,” adding that his vision for the team’s direction will remain consistent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Josef Newgarden’s finishing position in the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship?

Josef Newgarden finished 12th in the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship.

How many wins did Team Penske achieve in the 2025 season?

Team Penske achieved two wins in the 2025 season.

Who has replaced Will Power at Team Penske for the 2026 season?

David Malukas has replaced Will Power at Team Penske for the 2026 season.

Will Team Penske be able to regain its championship form in the upcoming season, and how will Newgarden’s renewed intensity impact the competitive landscape?