Will Power sprayed the champagne. He shuffled the sponsors’ hats, extended his ‘number-one’ index finger, and posed for photos.
He even took selfie.
He had just dominated the Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis, and when it was all said and done, he made his way to the Economacki press-conference room and answered questions next to his trophy, including whether he considered himself a favorite for the 99th running of the Indianapolis 500, now just two weeks away.
“I’ve got more focus on the 500 than I’ve ever had,” Power admitted. “The main focus to me is the 500.”
A Verizon IndyCar Series driver’s championship was the ultimate goal, Power explained. With that out of the way after last season, he returned to the month of May in Indy brimming with confidence, and a Team Penske group around him that feels the same way.
“Will Power had one of his best days, never missed a beat and was out front all day long,” team owner Roger Penske said post-race. “This bodes well for us as we move into Memorial Day [weekend for the Indianapolis 500].”
The Grand Prix of Indianapolis is still becoming a part of the May tradition, and while Penske has won 15 Indianapolis 500’s as an owner, Power now has the chance to give himself and his car owner the first “double” in IndyCar history.
“It feels very good,” said Power. “It’s funny, I came in this month determined to have a good month. I haven’t had that for so long. It’s working out. It’s just awesome to win at this place.”
Power has said his ultimate goal was to not just win the race, but win all four sections of the month of May: two poles and two victories.
He’s already begun planning his Indy 500 celebration. Sort of.
“You’re there with the milk. Ain’t got anyone else on the podium. Just you and the milk,” he mused. “Now that’s a selfie right there.”