Penske’s Week: Cindric Returns, Business Grows, and Daytona Three-Peat
BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., January 30, 2026 – In a span of days, Roger Penske’s vast automotive and motorsport empire has demonstrated its multifaceted strength, from a surprising leadership reversal in IndyCar to significant retail expansion and a landmark victory on the track.
Cindric’s Remarkable Team Penske Comeback
In a stunning development, Team Penske announced Thursday that it has rehired former president Tim Cindric, less than a year after dismissing him. Cindric was one of three senior leaders fired in May 2025 following technical infractions discovered on the cars of Josef Newgarden and Will Power after the Indianapolis 500. He will return in a new, focused role as the race strategist for driver Scott McLaughlin for the upcoming NTT IndyCar Series season. The move has sparked mixed reactions from fans but underscores the organization’s pragmatic approach to talent.
Penske Automotive Accelerates Florida Presence
Separately, Penske Automotive Group, the publicly traded retail arm of Penske’s business, announced a major expansion in Central Florida. The company has signed an agreement to acquire two Lexus dealerships—Lexus of Orlando and Lexus of Winter Park. The acquisition is expected to add approximately $450 million in annualized revenue, significantly boosting PAG’s footprint in a key Sun Belt market. This follows the company’s recent completion of Porsche dealership acquisitions in Melbourne, Australia.
Key Developments
| Sector | Latest News |
|---|---|
| Motorsport (IndyCar) | Tim Cindric rehired as Scott McLaughlin’s strategist after May 2025 firing. |
| Business (Retail) | Penske Automotive Group to acquire two Florida Lexus stores, adding $450M in revenue. |
| Motorsport (IMSA) | Porsche Penske Motorsport wins third consecutive Rolex 24 at Daytona on January 26. |
| Driver Movement | Two-time IndyCar champion Will Power begins new chapter with Andretti Global after 16 years with Penske. |
Historic Hat-Trick at Daytona
On the track, the Porsche Penske Motorsport team delivered a masterclass in endurance racing, securing its third straight victory in the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona on Sunday, January 26. Driven by Felipe Nasr, Dane Cameron, and Matt Campbell, the No. 7 Porsche 963 crossed the finish line just 1.569 seconds ahead of its nearest competitor. This three-peat ties the team with Chip Ganassi Racing and Wayne Taylor Racing for the most consecutive wins in the event’s history, offering a bright spot following a challenging 2025 IndyCar season for the organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Tim Cindric fired from Team Penske?
Cindric, along with two other senior team leaders, was dismissed in May 2025 after illegal push-to-pass software was found on the cars of Josef Newgarden and Will Power following the Indianapolis 500, a major rules violation.
What does Penske Automotive Group’s new acquisition mean?
The purchase of Lexus of Orlando and Lexus of Winter Park represents a strategic expansion into the high-growth Florida market, significantly increasing the company’s annual revenue and luxury brand portfolio.
How significant is Team Penske’s third Rolex 24 win?
It is a historic achievement. Only two other teams have ever won the Rolex 24 at Daytona three years in a row, placing Porsche Penske Motorsport among the elite in IMSA sports car racing history.