Team Penske Adjusts Engineering and Strategy for IndyCar Series Amid Staffing Changes
In a significant reshuffle ahead of the upcoming race at World Wide Technology Raceway, Team Penske has confirmed its temporary staffing for the timing stand following the dismissal of the race strategists for its three Chevrolet-powered entries. This change comes just days before the Indianapolis 500, which occurred on May 25.
For the combined efforts during the Indianapolis and subsequent Detroit Grand Prix on June 1, Team Penske had leveraged support from the Porsche Penske Motorsport IMSA GTP program. However, with the IMSA team participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France, the IndyCar division has opted for an internal consolidation of race strategists and engineers.
In preparation for the 260-lap race on Sunday, engineer Luke Mason—an experienced strategist with two Indy 500 victories—will take charge of strategy for Josef Newgarden in the No. 2 Chevrolet. Similarly, David Faustino will handle engineering and strategic roles for Will Power’s No. 12 entry.
The only continuity from previous events is in Scott McLaughlin’s No. 3 Chevrolet, with race engineer Ben Bretzman transitioning from technical responsibilities to strategy for the race. Malcolm Finch will step in to manage Bretzman’s engineering duties during the event.
Additionally, veteran crew chief Matt Jonsson, who has guided Power’s car this season, will hand over his position to Blaine Hardy for the race. Jonsson, a longstanding figure in the Penske organization with a history of success, will move to a support role, potentially signaling a shift towards managerial responsibilities.
Hardy, a U.S. Marine veteran, has been mentored by Jonsson and is set to lead the No. 12 Chevy for the first time, marking a new chapter in his career within the Penske framework. This strategic realignment reflects Team Penske’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness in the IndyCar Series during this transitional period.
