Jacob Abel Joins Dale Coyne Racing for 2025 IndyCar Season
In an exciting announcement for fans of open-wheel racing, Jacob Abel is set to make his mark in the 2025 IndyCar season as a full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing. At just 23 years old, Abel brings both youth and experience, having spent the last three years honing his craft on the Indy NXT circuit. As he transitions to the premier level of American motorsport, anticipation is high for what this promising talent can achieve.
Rising Through the Ranks
Abel's journey to the big leagues has been notable. A promising contender on the Indy NXT circuit, last season he clinched three race victories and stood on the podium in 10 out of 14 races — an impressive feat that underscores his potential. Only in his rookie year did he finish eighth in the points standings, quickly demonstrating his ability to learn and adapt by securing the runner-up position the following year.
His transition to IndyCar comes after a successful evaluation test at Sebring in the fall, which provided a glimpse into his capabilities at the highest level. "We have watched Jacob over the years and did an evaluation test with him at the end of the 2023 season, where he showed great promise in these cars," remarked Dale Coyne, shedding light on the team's confidence in Abel's potential.
A New Chapter with Dale Coyne Racing
In 2025, Abel will pilot the No. 51 car for Dale Coyne Racing, marking a strategic move for the team. Unlike last year, when the No. 51 car featured multiple drivers, Abel will be the sole driver throughout the season. This dedicated approach is intended to cultivate consistency, vital in the fiercely competitive NTT IndyCar Series.
Abel's excitement is palpable as he embarks on this new phase of his racing career. "I've had a great relationship with Dale for the last couple of years, and I'm very thankful for the confidence he has in me," Abel said. "The team has some very experienced personnel joining and returning to the program, and I have full confidence they will deliver a great race car and help me learn the ropes. It's going to be a fun but challenging journey, and I can't wait to get started."
Testing Grounds and Future Debut
As part of his preparation, Abel is scheduled to begin testing at California’s Thermal Club in late January. This crucial period will allow him to acclimate to the car and the unique demands of IndyCar racing. His official IndyCar debut is slated for March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida, an event that will undoubtedly attract attention as fans and competitors alike watch to see how this young driver performs on motorsport’s grandest stage.
Looking to the Future
While the announcement of the full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing's No. 18 car is expected in the coming weeks, Abel's confirmation provides a clear direction for the team in 2025. His past experience, including stints in Formula 3 and 4, as well as the Indy Pro 2000 series from 2019 to 2021, further solidifies his credentials as a well-rounded racer ready to take on the IndyCar challenge.
With the racing season fast approaching, Jacob Abel's journey into IndyCar is one of the prominent storylines to watch. Both the driver and Dale Coyne Racing are poised for what promises to be a compelling season full of potential and growth. As the team and their new driver gear up for the rigorous demands of the IndyCar Series, the upcoming season is set to showcase whether this promising talent can translate his Indy NXT success onto the grand stage of IndyCar racing.