Reality Sinks In for David Malukas in First Test as Penske Driver
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MOORESVILLE, N.C. – Just months removed from contributing to INDYCAR race coverage as a social media contributor while recovering from surgery, David Malukas is now preparing for his debut with Team Penske. The 2026 season will see the young driver behind the wheel of the iconic No.12 car, previously piloted by Will Power, a transition that is beginning to feel real for Malukas as he settles into life near the team’s Mooresville, North Carolina, shop.
The announcement of Malukas’s move to the sport’s most prosperous team was initially reported on September 18, 2024, following assurances of the opportunity. The significance of the move isn’t lost on Malukas, who was forced to watch Josef Newgarden secure his second consecutive Indianapolis 500 victory in May 2024 while sidelined with a surgically repaired wrist. He described his recent career developments as extraordinary
and amazing
during comments on Tuesday.
A Dream Realized After adversity
Malukas expressed disbelief at his current situation,stating,I don’t even know what to tell you at this point. Everything happens for a reason, and now I’m in my dream car.
His first race with Team Penske is scheduled for the Firestone Grand Prix of St.Petersburg on March 1, 2025, and he acknowledges the substantial work ahead. Power achieved 42 race wins, including the 2018 Indianapolis 500, and two season championships driving the No. 12 car, setting a high bar for his successor.
Did You Know? …
Team Penske has secured 18 IndyCar Series championships, more than any other team in the sport’s history. IndyCar.com
Facing Established Competition
While Malukas has yet to secure a race or pole position in 61 series starts, he demonstrated his competitive spirit as a rookie in 2022, battling teammates Josef Newgarden and Scott McLaughlin at World Wide Technology Raceway. In 2024, he finished second to Alex Palou at Indianapolis, bringing his career total of top-five finishes to five.though, he enters Team Penske at an experience disadvantage, with Newgarden and McLaughlin combining for 39 series wins. The 2026 season is also expected to be highly competitive, with Palou aiming for a fourth consecutive season title and fifth in six years.
| Driver | Series Wins |
|---|---|
| Josef Newgarden | 28 |
| Scott McLaughlin | 11 |
| David Malukas | 0 |
| Will Power | 42 |
For now, Malukas is focused on the present, embracing his opportunity with Team Penske and prioritizing finding a residence in the Charlotte area to facilitate regular access to the team’s Mooresville shop. He admitted, I still can’t even believe it. Back at the start of ’24, which was just last year, driving a Penske car wasn’t even a random thought for me. Now I’m here.
.
pro Tip: …
Staying connected with Team Penske’s social media channels (@Team_Penske) is a great way to follow Malukas’s progress and get behind-the-scenes updates.
What are your expectations for David Malukas in his first season with Team Penske? Do you think he can challenge for a championship in the competitive IndyCar Series?
IndyCar Series: A History of Team Penske Dominance
Team Penske has been a cornerstone of the IndyCar Series since its inception, consistently demonstrating a commitment to excellence and innovation. Founded by Roger Penske, the team has cultivated a legacy of success, attracting top-tier drivers and engineers. the team’s success extends beyond the track,with a strong emphasis on fan engagement and community involvement. The addition of David Malukas continues this tradition, signaling a radiant future for the team and the series.
Frequently Asked Questions about david Malukas and team Penske
- Q: When does David Malukas’s contract with Team Penske begin?
A: Malukas will officially join Team Penske for the 2026 IndyCar Series season. - Q: What number car will David Malukas drive for Team Penske?
A: He will be driving the No. 12 car, previously driven by will Power. - Q: What was David Malukas doing before joining Team Penske?
A: He was recovering from wrist surgery and contributed to INDYCAR race coverage as a social media contributor. - Q: how many IndyCar Series wins does David Malukas currently have?
A: As of November 8, 2024, David Malukas has zero IndyCar Series wins. - Q: Where is Team Penske’s shop located?
A: Team Penske’s shop is located in Mooresville, North Carolina.
