Sixty years ago, Penske Racing opened its doors outside Philadelphia as a small sports car operation. The organization, now known as Team Penske, enters 2026 with a yearlong plan to mark the milestone. Founder Roger Penske acknowledged the anniversary with a direct message of thanks to fans who have witnessed the team’s triumphs and challenges. The celebration will include museum exhibits and special paint schemes, even as the team’s current drivers continue their pursuit of victories. Penske’s statement reflects both deep gratitude for an unmatched history and a clear focus on the work ahead.
Roger Penske Credits Fans and Founding Principles for Legacy
Penske posted an open letter on New Year’s Day, turning the spotlight away from trophies and toward the people in the grandstands. He expressed his appreciation for the support that has become the backbone of the organization.
“I want to take a moment to reflect on how appreciative I am of your unwavering support during that time,” Penske wrote, addressing fans.
“Your loyalty is unmatched, and your dedication is unparalleled.” He called fans the lifeblood of the sport, crediting their passion for driving the team forward each season from Daytona to Indianapolis and beyond.
From The Captain to our fans. #Penske60 pic.twitter.com/vIo1bFjypB
— Team Penske (@Team_Penske) January 1, 2026
The chairman’s note then traced back to the very beginning, before massive facilities and global recognition. Penske painted a picture of humble origins that stands in stark contrast to today’s empire.
“Six decades later, it is amazing to think about what Team Penske was like in those early years,” he stated.
It all started in a small shop built on the pillars of integrity, respect, passion, hard work and a will to win. Those values enabled the team to capture victories in the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring in its first year, 1966.
Team Penske’s Massive Celebrations and Hall of Fame Exhibits Set for 2026
The 2026 season promises to be historic, featuring numerous fan engagements and historical showcases. Roger Penske framed the coming year as a unique opportunity for shared celebration.
“Our 60th anniversary is a tremendous milestone for our organization,” he said in a team release.
“The 2026 season will give us the opportunity to celebrate the people, partners and fans who have helped shape Team Penske since 1966, while also looking ahead to the future.”
The celebrations will include a dedicated 60th-anniversary exhibit opening at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte. The exhibit will feature historic race cars, championship memorabilia and rare artifacts from the team’s archives.
Additional displays will be hosted at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and the Penske Racing Museum in Scottsdale, Arizona. On the track, fans can expect to see select retro paint schemes on Team Penske entries across NASCAR, IndyCar, and IMSA, created with long-standing partners.
The team will also launch its internal Hall of Fame program, honoring individuals connected to a legacy that now includes more than 650 victories, 700 pole positions, and 48 championships. However, despite all the reflection taking place, Penske made it clear the organization is not slowing down. He invoked a simple family mantra that continues to guide the operation.
“My father taught me the phrase Effort Equals Results many years ago,” Penske said. This balanced message of gratitude and grit sets the tone for a historic season in which celebration and competition move forward together.
