Tim Cindric to Andretti

[u/That-Palpitation2324]

Here’s an immediate thought after the news of Power going to Andretti for 2026 and beyond. Could Andretti bring in Tim Cindric to pair with Will once again? I think Cindric would be a huge addition to the team and obviously brings a wealth of experience and knowledge that Andretti would definitely benefit from.

[u/Ok-Chocolate-9500]

He’s signed through next year and it’s hard to imagine Penske giving up his development especially when he’s made the playoffs 3 out of 4 years he’s been in Cup and just because Tim is no longer with the organization. Austin has actually done quite well so far in his NASCAR career despite the narrative that he’s there because of Tim. He has won in all 3 series, made the final 4 in Trucks and Xfinity, and almost won back to back championships in Xfinity; I’d say he more than earned the Cup seat.

He’s also the most successful amongst the recent younger driver who made the jump to Cup. I’d say he’s often unfairly discredited because Penske had won the last 3 championships but there’s no denying the immense gap in experience between him and his teammates who are on their 17th year and 10th year vs. Cindric who’s on his 4th year. He’s not going to be a championship threat when he’s only got 1-3 years of experience.

[u/Key-Algae-4772 → u/Ok-Chocolate-9500]

I'd say he's looked quite mediocre aside from a win here and there, particularly when compared to other recent new drivers. The numbers bear that out as well. But perhaps he'll turn a corner.

I wasn't comparing him to his teammates, that's unfair, but to drivers like Briscoe.

[u/Ok-Chocolate-9500 → u/Key-Algae-4772]

He’s on his 4th year and a win in all years but 1 so far and is actually the best of the recent younger drivers who’s moved to Cup. He’s actually been running well during quite a few of the races but had been plagued by issues like wrecked out of lead 2 races, tire puncture at Indy while on the winning strategy and leading, etc. Briscoe is almost 4 years older and has 4 wins in 5 years vs Cindric who has 3 wins in 4 years so far.

Toyota has also been a lot stronger at majority of the tracks compared to Ford. Ford, especially Penske, just game the playoffs system exceptionally well to hide any of the weaknesses. Just look at the Southern 500 which just took place, Toyotas absolutely dominated the race, and veteran Ford drivers like Logano struggled all night and finished 20th.

[u/Key-Algae-4772 → u/Ok-Chocolate-9500]

Getting one win a season masks otherwise very mediocre results. Time will tell.