Jacob Abel to Embark on Full-Time IndyCar Role with Dale Coyne Racing
In a significant move within the NTT IndyCar Series, Jacob Abel is set to become a full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing in 2025. At just 23, Abel’s progression from the Indy NXT circuit to IndyCar highlights a rapidly advancing career for the young driver. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp racing acumen, Abel is poised to make his IndyCar debut in St. Petersburg, Florida, on March 2, commanding the No. 51 car throughout the season.
Rising Through the Ranks
Having spent the last three years building a notable track record in the Indy NXT series, Abel's breakout performances have not gone unnoticed. Last season, he clinched three race victories and made it to the podium 10 times in 14 races. His consistent performance propelled him to a runner-up finish in the standings, a commendable advancement from his eighth-place finish as a rookie.
His achievements in the feeder series, along with previous racing stints in Formula 3, Formula 4, and the Indy Pro 2000 series from 2019 to 2021, echo his capability and readiness for the challenges of the IndyCar circuit. Dale Coyne Racing acknowledged his impressive growth, with team principal Dale Coyne remarking, "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."
A New Chapter with Dale Coyne Racing
Dale Coyne Racing’s decision to transition to a single full-time driver for the No. 51 car underscores their commitment to foster consistency and development. The team's strategy marks a departure from their 2024 approach of multiple drivers in the same car, providing Abel with the unique opportunity to anchor the team's efforts throughout the 2025 season.
Expressing confidence in the newly formed partnership, Abel noted, "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. 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." With this mutual trust, both Cain’s team and Abel seem well-prepared for a competitive run in the upcoming series.
Testing Toward Success
Preparations for the 2025 season are set to accelerate with upcoming testing at California’s Thermal Club in late January. These sessions will be crucial for Abel to acclimate to the new racing dynamics and the team's strategic frameworks. The initial evaluation conducted in Sebring the previous fall highlighted Abel's adaptability and potential in IndyCar machinery, giving both team and driver confidence as they pave their way into the new season.
As the team refines its driver lineup, an announcement regarding the No. 18 car will soon complement Abel’s position, further setting the stage for a promising year. Dale Coyne commented on the advantages of having a dedicated driver for the No. 51 car, saying, "It will be good to run one driver in the No. 51 car for the whole season, so we can work on the consistency needed in the highly competitive NTT IndyCar Series."
A Season of Promise and Ambition
Jacob Abel’s entry as a full-time IndyCar driver is a testament to his hard work and the strategic foresight of Dale Coyne Racing. With the team's seasoned backroom staff and Abel's potential as a racing talent, the alignment promises an exhilarating campaign. As fans look forward to witnessing Abel take his first green flag in St. Petersburg, the burgeoning narrative of a young driver ready to make his mark in one of motorsport's most challenging environments is one of the key storylines heading into the new season.