
30 August, 2014: On this day 10 years ago, Team Penske’s Will Power finally broke through to capture his first IndyCar Series Championship, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite. The Australian driver, known for his blinding single lap speed, had narrowly missed out on the title three times before, finishing as the runner-up in 2010, 2011, and 2012. But in 2014, he left no doubt.
Driving the No. 12 Verizon Chevrolet, Power began the season with a victory in the opener at St. Petersburg and maintained strong form throughout the year. Consistency was key, with podium finishes at critical races and just two finishes outside the top 10. Power’s ability to perform on both street circuits and ovals proved decisive, particularly at tracks like Texas and Milwaukee.
Heading into the season finale at Fontana, Power held a commanding lead in the standings. A calm and calculated drive saw him finish ninth, securing enough points to claim the championship over teammate Helio Castroneves.
With his 2014 triumph, Will Power not only silenced his critics but also solidified his status as one of the most gifted drivers of his generation. He would go on to further enhance his legacy with a victory in the 2018 Indy 500, a second IndyCar Championship in 2022, and by surpassing Mario Andretti's all-time record for pole positions. These accomplishments have firmly established Power as one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport.