Will Power Secures 71st Career Pole at Gateway in Undeniable Fashion
Veteran IndyCar driver Will Power added another accolade to his legendary resume on Saturday, earning his 71st career pole position during qualifying for the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 at Worldwide Technology Raceway. The achievement marks a return to form for Power, who had not secured a pole since 2023. In a tightly contested qualifying session, Power led the field with a blistering average speed of 180.329 mph, reminding fans and competitors why he remains a dominant force.
A Special Milestone
Driving the No.12 Chevrolet for Team Penske, Will Power attacked the Gateway oval with precision and confidence. His two-lap average of 180.329 mph earned him a fifth pole at the track, more than any other driver in the venue’s IndyCar history. It was not just a personal achievement either. Power’s pole marked Team Penske’s 700th pole across all racing series, a massive milestone for one of motorsport’s most iconic teams.
What made this run particularly impressive was how Power approached it. Despite variable conditions and a delayed start to qualifying, he committed fully to an aggressive line, saying afterward he had to “drive it flat” in turns 3 and 4. I was a calculated risk that paid off. With this pole, Power not only cemented his status as the all-time leader in IndyCar poles but also reasserted his intent to remain a front-runner in the 2025 season.
Implications for The Race
The field at Gateway was stacked, but Will Power still managed to edge out his Team Penske teammate Scott McLaughlin by just under two-tenths of a second. Chevrolet-powered cars dominated the front of the grid, with the top five qualifiers all running Chevy engines, highlighting a clear technical edge on oval setups. Power’s performance set him up well for Sunday night’s race, especially given his track record at Gateway, and added the advantage of starting up front.
More than just a numbers game, this pole could be a turning point for Power’s season. After a relatively quiet 2024, he has come into the 2025 campaign looking sharper and more determined. The Bommarito 500 will also be IndyCar’s first Sunday night primetime race at the track since 2019, adding an extra layer of excitement and visibility. With momentum and experience on his side, all eyes will be on Will Power when the green flag drops.
Final Thoughts
Will Power’s 71st career pole is a testament to enduring talent, razor-sharp focus, and a relentless competitive drive. By delivering under pressure at Gateway, he has reignited both his season and fans’ expectations. As IndyCar continues to evolve, Power’s ability to rise to the occasion remains as sharp as ever. Whether this pole translates into victory or not, one thing is certain: Will Power is far from done making history.
