Will Power – 2018 Indianapolis 500 winner

Lore & Background

Will Power’s path to Indy 500 glory was paved with frustration. Known for his blistering speed and pole-winning prowess, Power had led laps in multiple Indianapolis 500s but always fell short—whether due to mechanical issues, strategy miscues, or sheer bad luck. With a perfectly timed pit strategy and a flawless drive, Power held off a charging Ed Carpenter in the closing laps to take the checkered flag, finally silencing the doubts that had followed him for years. The victory was especially poignant given Power’s history at the Speedway. He had finished second in 2015 and had been in contention several times, only to see victory slip away. The win not only cemented his legacy as one of the greats of his era but also gave Team Penske its 17th Indianapolis 500 victory, extending its record as the most successful team in the race’s history. For Power, it was the culmination of a career defined by speed, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

In Their Own Story

The roar of the crowd was deafening as Will Power crossed the yard of bricks, his hands shaking on the steering wheel. For a moment, time seemed to stand still—the years of near-misses, the bitter defeats, the quiet doubts all dissolving in the haze of victory. He had dreamed of this moment since he was a boy in Toowoomba, watching grainy tapes of Indy 500s. Now, as he climbed from his car and kissed the bricks, the tears came freely. The Brickyard had finally welcomed him home.

Reader's Guide

Starting from third position, Power’s Team Penske crew executed a flawless strategy, including a critical final pit stop that gave him the lead for good. He held off a hard-charging Ed Carpenter by 3.5 seconds, a margin that belied the intense pressure of the final laps. This win was significant for several reasons. It marked Power’s first Indy 500 victory after years of close calls, including a runner-up finish in 2015. It also added to his legacy as one of the most versatile drivers of his generation, having already won championships and races on road courses, street circuits, and ovals. For Team Penske, it was a record-extending 17th win at the Speedway, reinforcing their dominance in American open-wheel racing. Power’s triumph was celebrated by fans around the world, who had long admired his tenacity and raw speed.

Did You Know?

• Power’s victory was the 17th for Team Penske at the Indianapolis 500, extending their record as the winningest team in the event’s history.