Tim Cindric has stepped down from his day-to-day responsibilities as Team Penske president, a role he has held for nearly two decades.
The announcement which came on January 31, 2025 marks a significant shift in leadership within one of the most successful racing organizations in history.
Tim Cindric’s tenure as Team Penske president has been characterized by remarkable achievements across various racing series, including NASCAR, IndyCar, IMSA and the World Endurance Championship (WEC) solidifying his reputation as a key player in the motorsports industry.
Cindric’s journey with the team began in 1999 when he joined the organization and over the years he ascended through the ranks, ultimately becoming president in 2006.
Under his leadership, Team Penske has secured numerous championships and race victories, establishing itself as a powerhouse in both NASCAR and IndyCar. He has been pivotal in securing an impressive 147 victories and three consecutive Cup Series championships through drivers Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney.
The 56-year old’s strategic vision and ability to foster talent have been instrumental in the team’s success, making his decision to step back from daily operations particularly noteworthy.
However, many speculate the move is linked to Cindric’s controversy over the push-to-pass scandal at IndyCar’s season-opening race in St Petersburg which got him suspended two races.
In a statement released shortly after the announcement, Tim Cindric clarified that his departure from day-to-day management as Team Penske president was entirely voluntary.
“Really tough few days having to let those I’ve worked so close with to achieve so much know that I need to make a change that reprioritises some areas of my life,” Cindric wrote on X.
“The journey I’ve been on has been amazing but it’s time for me to catch up on some things that I’ve missed in life along the way.
“To be clear, this was totally my choice. I didn’t get pushed out of the team in any way. I’m really appreciative that Roger and I could find a way to stay together and that I can continue working in the sport I fell in love with as a child.
“Can’t wait for St Pete!”
While stepping back from daily operations in NASCAR, IMSA and the WEC, Cindric will continue to serve as president of Team Penske’s IndyCar division and will oversee the team’s historical archives and assets.
This transition allows him to remain connected to the sport he loves while taking on a role that offers greater flexibility.
Ron Ruzewski will assume responsibility as the managing director of Team Penske’s IndyCar operations, ensuring continuity in leadership and strategy.
The news of Cindric’s departure has sparked speculation regarding the future direction of Team Penske. However, both Cindric and Roger Penske have expressed confidence in the existing leadership structure within the organization.
Michael Nelson will continue as president of Team Penske’s NASCAR Cup Series program, while Jonathan Diuguid remains managing director of Porsche Penske Motorsport.
The stability provided by these leaders is expected to support the team’s ongoing success. The organization’s ability to adapt and thrive amid changing dynamics in motorsport can be attributed to Cindric’s foresight and strategic planning.
While he steps down as Team Penske president, his family connection to racing still remains. His son Austin Cindric is currently on a full-time race seat with the team in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Austin made headlines himself by winning the Daytona 500 in 2022, marking a significant milestone for both father and son within the sport.
The team’s new operational structure will be in place when the 2025 IndyCar season gets underway at the Grand Prix of St Petersburg from 28th February to 2nd March.
