Veteran IndyCar driver Will Power secured his third win of the season on Sunday at the Portland International Raceway, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. The 43-year-old, who now boasts 44 career victories in the series, was introspective following his latest triumph, expressing how each win has grown more meaningful as his career progresses.
Power, who has been a fixture in IndyCar for nearly two decades, took a moment to reflect on his achievements and the fleeting nature of a racing career. Despite not hinting at an immediate retirement, Power acknowledged the reality that his time behind the wheel is limited.
“Man, anytime I win in this series, I feel so lucky,” Power admitted after the race. “It feels like it’s so impossible and hard to win. I was thinking through the race, ‘No way I’m going to win this. He’s going to get me.’ But you do your absolute best. When you get a win, it’s a very good feeling. It’s very, very satisfying.”
The Australian driver emphasized the difficulty of competing in the highly competitive IndyCar series, where the level of talent and skill required to secure a victory is immense. He highlighted the challenge of advancing through qualifying rounds and executing flawlessly on race day, surrounded by top-tier teams and drivers.
“Every win I get now, it’s so special. It really means a lot,” Power said. “It’s adding to my win list. It’s not like I’m racing for another decade, put it that way.”
Power’s victory in Portland holds special significance for him, as the track is where he completed his first test in an open-wheel car in America. Reflecting on that initial experience, Power spoke about the long journey from his early days in the sport to his current status as one of IndyCar’s most accomplished drivers.
“I worked very hard always, was very determined,” Power recalled. “When you reflect on it when you came here all those years ago, it was a dream. What I’ve done, I’ve lived out my dream, absolutely.”
Power’s win not only added to his career achievements but also tightened the championship race. He now trails points leader Alex Palou by just 54 points with three races remaining, putting him in contention for his third IndyCar title.
As Power continues to push for another championship, his words serve as a reminder of the dedication and passion that have driven his success throughout his career. Each victory, as he notes, is a testament to his hard work and the commitment of his team, making every moment on the podium all the more cherished.
Photo from Will Power Instagram