Jacob Abel Set to Make a Mark in IndyCar with Dale Coyne Racing
As the 2025 racing season approaches, all eyes are on the promising young driver Jacob Abel, who is gearing up to become a full-time fixture in the IndyCar scene with Dale Coyne Racing. The 23-year-old has been carving his path in the racing world, and this new chapter signifies a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Climbing the Ranks
Jacob Abel’s journey through the racing ranks has been nothing short of impressive. Over the last three years, he honed his skills in the Indy NXT circuit, collecting three wins and consistently reaching the podium 10 times in just 14 races last season alone. This stellar performance saw him debut as eighth in the points standings while ultimately taking the runner-up position last year.
Having competed in Formula 3 and 4 and the Indy Pro 2000 series between 2019 and 2021, Abel brings a wealth of experience to the table. His progression in motorsports showcases a determined and dedicated driver ready to tackle new challenges.
Dale Coyne Racing's Strategic Move
Dale Coyne Racing decided to run Abel as their sole driver in the No. 51 car for the entire season, marking a shift from their previous strategy of rotating drivers in 2024. "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," Dale Coyne remarked. "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."
With a full-time spot in the team, Abel will be settling into the No. 51 car, a commitment that promises to deliver consistency and focus as he navigates through the formidable IndyCar circuit. The car is primed for its first official test at California’s Thermal Club, where Abel will kick off his rigorous preparation late January.
Anticipation for the Debut
Abel’s much-anticipated IndyCar debut is set for March 2, in St. Petersburg, Florida, an environment known for its challenging street circuit that will undoubtedly test his mettle. The excitement is palpable as Abel himself expressed, "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."
Jacob’s journey to this point has been defined by steadfast progression and an evident passion for racing. As the watchful eyes of the motorsport community focus on him, there's a shared sense of curiosity about how this promising driver will leverage this opportunity with Dale Coyne Racing to leave a lasting imprint on the IndyCar series.