Jacob Abel: A Promising Journey Ahead with Dale Coyne Racing
In 2025, a new era begins for Jacob Abel as the 23-year-old racer steps up to a full-time drive with Dale Coyne Racing in the NTT IndyCar Series. This move comes after several years honing his craft on the Indy NXT circuit, where Abel showcased his capabilities with three race victories and numerous podium finishes last season.
From Indy NXT to IndyCar
Abel’s journey to IndyCar has been marked by steady progress and notable achievements. Having competed in Formula 3, Formula 4, and the Indy Pro 2000 series from 2019 to 2021, Abel has steadily climbed the ladder of open-wheel racing. His dedication paid off during his time in Indy NXT, earning him three wins and a runner-up finish in the points standings last season, a testament to his growing prowess and consistency on the track.
Reflecting on his transition, Abel remarked, "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." His relationship with Dale Coyne Racing has been further cemented through an evaluation test at Sebring at the end of the 2023 season.
A New Chapter with Dale Coyne Racing
Dale Coyne Racing, known for nurturing talent, has decided to focus its efforts by running a single driver in their No. 51 car for the entire 2025 season. This shift is a departure from their approach in 2024, where the team fielded multiple drivers. As Coyne put it, "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."
Abel will drive the No. 51 car, bringing a renewed energy and focus for both the team and the driver. Coyne's confidence in Abel, coupled with the team's experienced personnel, aims to deliver performance and consistency within the fiercely competitive environment of IndyCar racing. "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," Coyne noted.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Abel is set to begin testing at California’s Thermal Club in late January, gathering crucial data and seat time ahead of his IndyCar debut, scheduled for March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida. This period will be critical for Abel as he acclimates to the increased demands of IndyCar racing, a step up from his past experiences. Alongside him, Dale Coyne Racing will carry forward experienced members of the team who bring invaluable insights and support.
"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," Abel expressed, highlighting the collaborative spirit essential for success.
Anticipation Builds
As anticipation builds around Abel's full-time debut in the top tier of U.S. open-wheel racing, there remains an air of optimism and readiness for the challenges to come. Abel is acutely aware of the learning curve ahead, but his track record and readiness to embrace Dale Coyne’s guidance position him well for success.
The racing community will also be watching closely as Dale Coyne Racing announces the driver for their No. 18 car in the coming weeks, further shaping the team’s lineup for the season. As for Abel, this opportunity is both a culmination of years of dedication and the beginning of what promises to be an exciting chapter in his racing career.
As Abel embarks on this journey, his determination and skill make him a compelling figure on the grid, representing both the seasoned ambitions of Dale Coyne Racing and his personal drive to excel. The stakes are high, but with a sharp focus and a solid backing, Abel’s story in the world of IndyCar is just about to unfold.