Will Power: 2018 Indy 500 Winner’s Journey to Racing Greatness

In 2018, Australian racing driver Will Power finally conquered the Indianapolis 500, achieving a career-defining victory in his 11th attempt at the legendary race. Power led 59 laps and took the lead for good on Lap 196, cementing his place in motorsport history. The win represented a crowning achievement for the Team Penske driver who had already established himself as one of the greatest road course racers in IndyCar.

The victory wasn’t just another trophy for Power’s collection—it completed his resume in a meaningful way. Prior to this breakthrough, Power had already captured the 2014 IndyCar Championship, but the Indy 500 had remained frustratingly elusive. His triumph at the 102nd running of the race earned him the honor of having his face sculpted onto the iconic Borg-Warner Trophy, joining an exclusive club of racing legends.

After taking the checkered flag, Power was overwhelmed with emotion, famously screaming “Show me respect, mother!” over his radio before more reflectively stating he felt “very grateful” and “privileged” to join the ranks of Indy 500 winners. The victory helped solidify Power’s status as one of the most successful drivers in Indy car racing history, a reputation he would further enhance by adding a second championship in 2022.

Will Power’s Early Life and Career

Will Power‘s journey to racing stardom began in Australia, where he developed the skills and determination that would eventually lead him to IndyCar glory. His path from karting prodigy to Indianapolis 500 champion showcases a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Beginnings in Karting and Open-Wheel Racing

Born on March 1, 1981, in Toowoomba, Australia, Will Power grew up in a racing family. His father operated a racing team, providing young Will with early exposure to motorsports.

Power began his racing career in karting at age 6, quickly showing natural talent behind the wheel. After dominating local karting competitions, Power made the jump to open-wheel racing in 2001, competing in the Australian Formula Ford Championship. He won the Formula Ford Championship in 2002, establishing himself as Australia’s next potential racing star.

Power’s international career began taking shape when he moved to Europe, competing in British Formula 3 and World Series by Renault. These formative years weren’t always smooth – limited budgets and fierce competition taught Power the resilience that would later define his career.

Ascent to IndyCar Series

Power’s American racing journey began in 2005 when he joined the Champ Car World Series with Team Australia. His breakthrough came in 2006 when he secured his first podium finish, followed by his first race win in 2007 at Las Vegas.

When Champ Car merged with the IndyCar Series in 2008, Power found himself in a part-time role with KV Racing. His career-defining moment arrived in 2009 when he caught the attention of legendary team owner Roger Penske after an impressive substitute drive for Team Penske.

Power’s early IndyCar years showed his exceptional qualifying speed, earning him a reputation as the series’ premier road course specialist. Between 2010-2013, he finished championship runner-up three times, displaying the raw speed and talent that would eventually make him an Indianapolis 500 champion and two-time series champion.

Overview of the Indianapolis 500

The Indianapolis 500 stands as American motorsport’s most prestigious event, combining history, speed, and tradition in a single race that captures global attention each May.

Significance of the Indy 500

The Indianapolis 500 isn’t just a race—it’s an American institution. First run in 1911, this 500-mile contest has become the largest single-day sporting event in the world, drawing crowds exceeding 300,000 spectators.

The event represents the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in North America. Winning the Indy 500 instantly elevates a driver to motorsport immortality, joining names like Foyt, Unser, and Mears in racing lore.

For teams and manufacturers, the technical challenges of the 2.5-mile oval make victory especially sweet. The race’s unique format—33 cars, 200 laps, 500 miles—has remained remarkably consistent throughout its century-plus history, preserving traditions while embracing technological advancement.

The Borg-Warner Trophy

Perhaps no sporting prize carries the gravitas of the Borg-Warner Trophy. Standing over 5 feet tall and weighing 110 pounds, this sterling silver monument has honored Indy 500 winners since 1936.

What makes this trophy truly unique is the winner’s likeness—a small sterling silver face—added to the trophy after each victory. This tradition creates a literal “face of victory” that permanently commemorates each champion.

The winner doesn’t take home the actual trophy but receives a “Baby Borg”—a smaller replica. The original stays on permanent display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, showcasing more than a century of racing excellence.

When Will Power won in 2018, he became the first Australian to have his face added to this iconic prize.

Track History and the Brickyard Essence

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway opened in 1909 as a testing facility for Indiana’s burgeoning automotive industry. The original surface—crushed stone and tar—proved disastrous, leading to the installation of 3.2 million bricks in 1909, earning the track its enduring nickname: “The Brickyard.”

Though paved with asphalt since 1961, the start/finish line maintains a yard-wide strip of the original bricks. This symbolic connection to history is honored in the “kissing the bricks” tradition, where winners kneel to kiss this sacred strip of track.

The rectangular 2.5-mile layout features four distinct turns with 9.2-degree banking, creating unique challenges for drivers and engineers alike. Its long straightaways and tight turns demand a perfect balance of straight-line speed and cornering stability.

2018 Indianapolis 500 Race Analysis

The 2018 Indianapolis 500 showcased Will Power’s masterful driving skills and strategic brilliance. His performance throughout the race demonstrated why Team Penske continues to dominate the iconic event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Qualifying Rounds

Power’s path to victory began with a stellar qualifying performance. He secured the third starting position with a four-lap average speed of 228.761 mph, placing him in the front row alongside Ed Carpenter and Simon Pagenaud. This prime grid position gave Power a significant advantage from the start.

The Australian driver showed impressive consistency during qualifying, with minimal speed drop-off across his four qualifying laps. Team Penske’s meticulous preparation was evident as all four of their cars qualified in the top nine positions.

Power’s qualifying performance wasn’t just about raw speed—it was a statement of intent. After years of Indianapolis heartbreak, his confident qualifying runs suggested 2018 might finally be his year to kiss the bricks.

Key Competitors: Alexander Rossi and Others

The 2018 field featured formidable opposition. Alexander Rossi, the 2016 Indy 500 winner, emerged as Power’s most persistent challenger, making several bold passes throughout the race and demonstrating fearless driving.

Ed Carpenter led a race-high 65 laps from pole position, proving to be a serious threat until late fuel strategy issues relegated him to a lower finishing position. Scott Dixon, Sebastien Bourdieu, and Tony Kanaan also showed pace at various points.

Danica Patrick’s final professional race ended prematurely when she crashed out on lap 68. Her early exit marked a disappointing conclusion to her racing career.

The race saw multiple lead changes among eight different drivers, making it one of the more competitive 500s in recent memory.

Race Strategy and Pit Stops

Power’s victory hinged on flawless pit strategy implemented by Team Penske’s tactical mastermind, Roger Penske. The team executed perfectly timed stops that kept Power in contention throughout the grueling 500 miles.

As temperatures soared above 90°F on race day, tire management became crucial. Power’s measured driving style preserved his tires without sacrificing speed, giving him an advantage as the race progressed.

The turning point came when several frontrunners, including Stefan Wilson and Jack Harvey, gambled on fuel strategy in the closing stages. They attempted to stretch their fuel to the finish but ultimately had to pit.

Power’s crew chief made the decisive call to ensure they had enough fuel for the final stint, allowing Power to push without concern. This strategic decision proved crucial to securing the win.

Final Laps and Victory

With just four laps remaining, Power seized the lead when Wilson and Harvey pitted for emergency fuel. The Australian driver didn’t waste the opportunity, immediately building a comfortable gap over second-place finisher Ed Carpenter.

Power was screaming with excitement on the final lap, knowing he was about to achieve his lifelong dream. He took the checkered flag with a 3.1589-second margin of victory.

The win completed a “Month of May sweep” for Power, who had also won the IndyCar Grand Prix on the Indianapolis road course earlier in the month. This rare achievement cemented his place in Indianapolis Motor Speedway history.

In Victory Lane, Power unleashed years of pent-up emotion, screaming “Show me respect!” His triumph extended Team Penske’s record to 17 Indianapolis 500 victories and proved that Power had finally conquered the oval racing challenge that had eluded him for so long.

Will Power’s Team and Support System

Behind every Indianapolis 500 champion stands a powerful team structure that makes victory possible. Power’s historic 2018 win showcased the importance of having both exceptional machinery and leadership support.

Role of Team Penske

Team Penske provided Will Power with everything he needed to achieve his dream of winning the Indianapolis 500. The organization’s preparation was evident throughout the month of May, delivering a car capable of leading 59 laps in the historic race.

Power’s crew executed flawlessly on pit road during the 2018 Indianapolis 500. Every pit stop was precisely timed and executed, giving him strategic advantages when he needed them most.

The car itself – the #12 Verizon-sponsored Dallara-Chevrolet – represented the pinnacle of IndyCar engineering. Team Penske’s technical expertise shone through as Power took the lead for good on Lap 196 of the 200-lap race.

Influence of Roger Penske

Roger Penske’s impact on Will Power’s career cannot be overstated. “The Captain” signed Power to Team Penske in 2009, demonstrating his belief in the Australian driver’s potential long before the 2018 triumph.

Penske’s strategic vision helped transform Power from a talented road course specialist into a complete oval racer capable of winning the sport’s biggest prize. His patient development approach paid off spectacularly when Power finally broke through on IndyCar’s grandest stage.

The victory represented Penske’s 17th Indianapolis 500 win as a team owner, further cementing his legendary status. Power frequently credits Penske’s leadership and unwavering support as crucial factors in his development as a championship-caliber driver.

Roger’s meticulous attention to detail permeates every aspect of the organization, creating an environment where excellence isn’t just encouraged – it’s expected.

Technological Aspects of Indycar Racing

The technology behind IndyCar racing combines cutting-edge engineering with strict regulations to create high-performance machines capable of speeds over 230 mph. These technological marvels represent the pinnacle of open-wheel racing innovation.

Car Design and Specifications

IndyCar vehicles are purpose-built open-wheel racers designed with a perfect balance of speed, safety, and competition. All cars use the same IR-18 Dallara chassis, creating a spec-series where driver skill becomes paramount.

Power comes from 2.2-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engines manufactured by either Honda or Chevrolet, producing approximately 700 horsepower. These engines are exclusively boosted by BorgWarner turbochargers, specially engineered for racing.

The cars weigh about 1,650 pounds without driver or fuel, creating an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Aerodynamics play a crucial role, with teams able to adjust front and rear wing configurations based on track requirements.

Temperature sensitivity is extreme in these machines. The 2018 Indy 500 demonstrated how heat affects performance, with teams constantly adjusting to changing track conditions.

Racing Technology and Innovations

The true technological marvel of IndyCar extends beyond the vehicles to the entire racing ecosystem. Race Control serves as the nerve center for monitoring and managing every aspect of competition.

Advanced telemetry systems transmit real-time data from each car to team engineers, allowing instantaneous adjustments. Key metrics include:

• Tire temperatures and pressures
• Engine performance parameters
• Fuel consumption rates
• G-forces during cornering

Safety innovations include the Advanced Frontal Protection device, SAFER barriers, and cockpit modifications designed to protect drivers during high-speed impacts.

Fuel strategy technology has become increasingly sophisticated, with teams utilizing predictive algorithms to maximize efficiency. The push-to-pass system adds another strategic element, giving drivers temporary horsepower boosts for overtaking maneuvers.

Impact and Legacy

Will Power’s 2018 Indianapolis 500 victory marked a pivotal moment in his career and left a lasting impression on motorsport history. His win not only cemented his place among Indy legends but also influenced the next generation of drivers.

Will Power’s Influence in Motorsport

Power’s dramatic 2018 Indy 500 victory transformed him from an IndyCar road course specialist to a complete driver. Before this win, critics questioned his oval racing abilities despite his impressive road course record. By taking the lead with just four laps remaining, Power silenced doubters in spectacular fashion.

The Australian driver’s success elevated Team Penske’s already legendary status at the Brickyard. His victory represented their 17th Indy 500 win, further establishing the team’s dominance.

Power’s emotional reaction in Victory Lane—screaming “Show me respect!”—became an iconic moment in modern motorsport. This raw display of emotion after kissing the bricks resonated with fans and fellow drivers alike.

Future Prospects for Indy 500 Winners

The prestige of winning the Indianapolis 500 fundamentally changed Power’s career trajectory. His face being added to the iconic Borg-Warner Trophy placed him in an elite group of motorsport legends.

For modern Indy 500 winners, commercial opportunities expand dramatically post-victory. Power’s success opened doors to sponsorships and media appearances that extended far beyond racing circles.

The pattern of Indy 500 champions shows that winning often leads to sustained success in the IndyCar Series. Power’s victory boosted his confidence on oval tracks, adding versatility to his already impressive skillset.

The Indianapolis 500 remains the crown jewel of American motorsport, with winners joining a fraternity that transcends generations. Power’s triumph ensured his name would be forever linked with racing immortals like Foyt, Unser, and Mears.

Associated Events and Cultural Significance

Will Power’s 2018 Indianapolis 500 victory extended far beyond the racetrack, embedding itself in both motorsport culture and the rich traditions that make the race an American institution. His breakthrough win after 11 attempts became a significant cultural moment in racing history.

IndyCar Series in Motorsport Culture

The IndyCar Series stands as America’s premier open-wheel racing championship, with the Indianapolis 500 as its crown jewel. Power’s victory represented a pivotal moment for international drivers in American motorsport, as he became the first Australian winner of the Indianapolis 500.

This achievement strengthened the global appeal of IndyCar, particularly in Australia and among international racing fans. Power’s emotional celebration in Victory Lane—a stark contrast to his typically composed demeanor—humanized the sport for viewers worldwide.

The win also bolstered Team Penske’s legendary status, marking their 17th Indianapolis 500 victory, further cementing Roger Penske’s record-setting dominance at the Brickyard.

Festivities and Traditions of Race Day

The 102nd Running of the Indianapolis 500 maintained its reputation as “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Power, the winner, became part of time-honored traditions. His victory celebrations included the customary milk drinking—a tradition dating back to 1936—and kissing the famed yard of bricks.

Power’s achievement was particularly significant. He completed the rare “May Double,” having won both the INDYCAR Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500 in the same month. This feat enhanced the growing importance of the Grand Prix as a complement to the 500.

The ceremonial placement of Power’s likeness on the Borg-Warner Trophy followed his win. This immortalized him among racing legends. His victory lap in front of 300,000+ spectators showcased the unmatched scale of this event. It transcends motorsport to become a true American cultural phenomenon.