With Tim Cindric stepping back and Doug Boles taking the reins at IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Roger Penske’s empire is undergoing a transformation.
Roger Penske isn’t just a team owner—he’s a motorsport mogul, controlling IndyCar, Team Penske’s operations across NASCAR, endurance racing, and even logistics and entertainment ventures. Few names in racing command such influence. So when there’s movement at the top of his empire, it’s more than just an internal shake-up—it’s a shift that will be felt across the motorsports world.
And in early 2025, those changes came fast and hard.
The biggest bombshell? Tim Cindric, the architect behind Penske’s modern success, has stepped down from his role as president of Team Penske, ending a 25-year reign of dominance. His replacement? Doug Boles, a trusted lieutenant of Penske and a powerhouse in IndyCar’s leadership structure.
But that’s just the beginning of a massive reshuffling at one of racing’s most dominant organizations.
Tim Cindric Steps Back: A Legacy Cemented, A New Chapter Begins
If you’re a racing fan and don’t know Tim Cindric, you’ve been missing out. The man is one of the greatest unsung heroes in motorsports history.
For a quarter-century, Cindric oversaw Team Penske’s rise into an unstoppable force, securing:
🏆 Over 300 race wins
🏆 25 championships
🏆 8 Indianapolis 500 victories
🏆 3 Daytona 500 wins
His leadership turned Penske’s late-90s struggles into an era of dominance across IndyCar, NASCAR, and endurance racing.
But on January 31, Cindric shocked the racing world by announcing his departure from Team Penske’s day-to-day operations.
“I’ve lived my dream job for the past 25 years,” Cindric said.
“But I need a change that gives me the flexibility I’m looking for at this stage of my career.”
While stepping back from his all-encompassing role, Cindric isn’t leaving Penske entirely. He’ll stay on as president of Penske’s IndyCar operations and oversee the team’s racing archives.
However, his move marks the end of an era—one that saw Team Penske transform into an international motorsports powerhouse.
Did 2023’s Controversies Play a Role in Cindric’s Decision?
While Cindric’s decision seems personal, some have speculated whether his turbulent 2023 played a role.
Last year, he was suspended for two IndyCar races following the controversial “Push-to-Pass” scandal, where Penske drivers were found to have access to illegal overtaking power boosts.
Was this a factor in his decision to step down? Possibly. But even if it was, it doesn’t tarnish his legacy.
His influence at Penske is undeniable, and his son, NASCAR Cup Series driver Austin Cindric, is keeping the family name alive on the track.
“I’m really appreciative that Roger and I could find a way to stay together,” Cindric said.
“I can continue working in the sport I fell in love with as a child.”
Doug Boles Takes Over as President of IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Just days after Cindric’s announcement, another major leadership shift rocked the Penske empire—this time in IndyCar.
Doug Boles, who has been president of Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) since 2013, is now the new president of IndyCar and IMS, taking over from Jay Frye.
Boles has been a trusted Penske insider for over a decade, playing a pivotal role in the 100th running of the Indy 500 in 2016, which sold out and brought unprecedented attention to the series.
“Racing is in my DNA,” Boles said.
“No form of racing resonates more personally and strongly with me than the NTT IndyCar Series.”
Why This Move is a Game-Changer
For the first time in years, IndyCar and IMS will be under one leader, creating a streamlined vision for the sport.
Penske Entertainment CEO Mark Miles called Boles “the ideal choice to lead IndyCar and IMS as we enter a new era of opportunity and visibility.”
Boles’ goal? Elevate IndyCar’s profile, attract new sponsors, and ensure the Indy 500 remains the crown jewel of open-wheel racing.
His appointment signals a bold step forward, but it also raises questions about what Penske’s long-term vision for IndyCar looks like.
More Changes on the Horizon for Penske?
The departures and promotions don’t stop at Cindric and Boles. With Roger Penske himself nearing 90, speculation continues over who will eventually succeed him at the top of the empire he built.
The latest moves indicate a deliberate succession plan, ensuring Penske’s dominance continues for decades to come.
But one thing is clear: Team Penske, IndyCar, and IMS are entering a new era.
And if history tells us anything, Roger Penske isn’t done making headlines just yet.