IndyCar’s Future: A New Car Leadership Structure Unveiled
As the world of motorsports continues to evolve, IndyCar has taken a significant step in shaping its future by introducing a new car leadership structure. In a surprising move, Penske Entertainment has appointed two non-competition executives to spearhead the new-car project, breaking away from the traditional leadership model that usually involves racing series presidents and their technical teams.
Mark Miles, CEO of Penske Entertainment, and Rich Shearing, COO of the Penske Automotive Group, have been selected as the two new directors tasked with overseeing the development of the future chassis and engine formula for IndyCar. While neither Miles nor Shearing have direct experience in the technical or engineering aspects of motor racing, their strategic roles in the project highlight a fresh approach to car design in the series.
The Transition of Leadership
The recent dismissal of former IndyCar president Jay Frye has led to a shift in the leadership structure, with new IndyCar president Doug Boles stepping in to fill the void. With Miles, Shearing, and Boles at the helm of the new-car leadership group, the series is navigating uncharted waters with a team that brings diverse expertise and perspectives to the table.
In a recent interview with RACER, Miles emphasized his role as an observer in the project, noting, “I haven’t done this before, and I’m not leading this. I’m observing it and trying to ask the right questions and making sure that our key stakeholders are involved.” This candid admission underscores the collaborative nature of the new leadership structure, with Shearing emerging as a key player in driving the future of IndyCar.
Shearing’s Role in the Project
Despite being a newcomer to the world of IndyCar, Shearing has quickly earned the respect of team owners and industry insiders alike. Described as a “quarterback” leading Penske’s future IndyCar project, Shearing’s background in engineering, business, and process development has proven invaluable in shaping the series’ next-generation engine and chassis package.
Miles praised Shearing for his contributions to the project, highlighting his expertise in supplier relationships, technology, and systems development. While Shearing may not have a formal title, his role as a facilitator and process developer has been instrumental in driving progress and fostering collaboration among the key stakeholders involved in the new-car initiative.
A Collaborative Approach
As IndyCar prepares to usher in a new era of racing with a revamped car design, the collaborative efforts of the new leadership structure are essential in achieving the desired outcomes. With Mark Sibla, Jay Frye’s main administrator, playing a pivotal role in keeping the new-car project on track, the series is poised to leverage the expertise of key stakeholders, including Ilmor, to ensure the successful transition to the next generation of IndyCar machinery.
Roger Penske’s central involvement in the decision-making process underscores the commitment of the Penske Corporation to driving innovation and excellence in the sport. As Miles emphasized, the goal of the new-car initiative is not only to enhance performance but also to attract additional OEMs to the series, paving the way for a more competitive and dynamic racing landscape.
Looking Ahead
While the new-car project, often referred to as the ‘2027 car,’ has generated significant excitement among fans and industry insiders, the road to its implementation is a complex one. With most members of the IndyCar paddock anticipating a rollout in 2028, Miles acknowledged the fluid nature of the project timeline, emphasizing the importance of getting it right rather than rushing to meet arbitrary deadlines.
“Those deadlines are subject to some change,” Miles noted. “If we can have it by ’27, that would be great. But if it’s not doable, and doable with clarity and certainty, then we won’t put it out for ’27.” This measured approach to the project reflects the series’ commitment to delivering a new car that embodies the spirit of innovation, performance, and competition that defines the essence of IndyCar racing.
In conclusion, IndyCar’s new car leadership structure represents a bold step forward in shaping the future of the series. With a diverse team of leaders at the helm and a collaborative approach to innovation, IndyCar is poised to usher in an exciting new era of racing that promises to captivate fans and drivers alike. Stay tuned as the series continues to unveil its vision for the future of motorsports.
