Will Power will leave Team Penske after 17 years as part of its IndyCar line-up.
It had long been rumoured that Penske could release Power at the end of his deal following the 2025 season, and replace him with David Malukas of AJ Foyt.
An incredible 17 years together.
Thank you, Will. pic.twitter.com/fzqKKdm8Tm
However, on Tuesday the team and driver said in a joint statement announcing his departure that it was Power's decision to leave.
"It’s been the honour of my life to drive for Roger and the Penske organisation," said Power, the 2014 and 2022 IndyCar champion.
"We have accomplished so much together, and I will always be grateful for my time with the team and my team-mates who have supported me along the way.
"After much consideration, I felt like a change for me was the right move at this time."
Thank you Will. I never thought I’d end up teammates with a true Motorsport legend but this crazy journey brought me there. I have enjoyed learning from you and trying to hone my craft to be as a precise as you are. I’ve still got a ways to go but I will always cherish the… pic.twitter.com/emQMWmN6d6
Roger Penske added Power had been "outstanding" for his team.
"As we sat down to talk about our future together, Will felt that it was time for him to make a change beginning with next season," said Penske.
"He has been an outstanding driver and teammate for our organisation. His results speak for themselves, and we wish him the very best in the next phase of his career."
Power has been linked to replacing Colton Herta at Andretti if the latter heads to Formula 2, and has also been strongly favoured as an option at Rahal Letterman Lanigan, which would have to remove one of Graham Rahal, Devlin DeFrancesco or Louis Foster to make room.
Those are the highest-profile seats currently available. Arrow McLaren has announced all three of its drivers will be retained - although there has since been speculation over Nolan Siegel's seat in the paddock - while the Chip Ganassi and Meyer Shank line-ups are remaining the same.
Malukas is all but certain to get Power's seat in the #12 car.
Power finished ninth in the points this year in what was a rollercoaster season for Penske, leading a squad that was embroiled in a scandal at the Indianapolis 500, which struggled for form and did not win until Power was victorious at Portland last month.
He was lead Penske driver even after myriad instances of mechanical issues and being taken out in crashes through the season.
He exits Penske after 42 wins and 71 pole positions, the latter accolade being an IndyCar record.
