Roger Penske, known affectionately as “The Captain,” has long been a dominant figure in motorsports, but 2024 will go down as one of the most remarkable seasons in his storied career. From a historic Rolex 24 at Daytona win to Joey Logano’s third NASCAR Cup title, Penske’s teams seemed unstoppable, collecting trophies across nearly every discipline they entered.
Kicking Off with Daytona and the Indy 500
The year began with emotional high stakes as Team Penske ended a 55-year drought to claim its first Rolex 24 at Daytona endurance race since 1969. Penske was moved to tears, a rare show of emotion from the ever-composed leader.
Then came Josef Newgarden’s back-to-back Indianapolis 500 victory, giving the team its record-extending 20th win at the Brickyard. Newgarden wasn’t the only one to shine; Scott McLaughlin also secured third in the IndyCar standings, while the Porsche Penske Motorsports program clinched the IMSA and World Endurance Championship (WEC) crowns.
Dominance in NASCAR
If anyone doubted Penske’s adaptability across motorsport disciplines, Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney silenced the critics. Logano’s thrilling duel with teammate Blaney in the NASCAR Cup Series finale capped off a historic 1-2 finish for Team Penske—the first in its history.
“To win three straight NASCAR championships with multiple drivers is a testament to what this team stands for,” Penske said. Logano’s third Cup title made him just the 10th driver to achieve such a feat, securing his place in NASCAR’s pantheon.
A Global Reach
This season, Penske’s influence extended beyond winning trophies. He expanded his motorsport empire, purchasing the Grand Prix of Long Beach, the longest-running street race in North America. The deal ensures the Southern California event remains an IndyCar staple through 2028, solidifying Penske’s legacy as both a competitor and steward of the sport.
The People Behind the Wins
Despite the glittering accolades, Penske credits his long-term employees for driving success across disciplines.
“Racing is a common thread through our company. What I try to do is provide them with what they need to be champions,” said Penske. “This year, the wins across all series will make every single one of our 74,000 employees proud.”
Logano echoed Penske’s sentiments, quoting his father: “You can’t soar like an eagle if you’re working with a bunch of turkeys.”
“The Captain” Keeps Striving
Despite the accolades, Penske’s hunger for perfection remains insatiable. He lamented missing the IndyCar championship and Le Mans victory, but his teams’ achievements speak for themselves:
- 20th Indy 500 Win
- 100th NASCAR Cup Victory
- 100th Sports Car Win
- NASCAR’s only team to win the championship in the new car era.
Looking Ahead
With Penske’s recent purchase of Long Beach and a joint venture for the Grand Prix of Arlington, his focus isn’t just on winning—it’s on shaping motorsport’s future. As Logano aptly put it: “This is where you go to win. Penske surrounds himself with winners, and that’s why we’re here.”
As Penske celebrates an extraordinary 2024 season, the captain of motorsport shows no signs of slowing down. His mission is clear: keep winning, keep innovating, and keep soaring above the competition.