As the engines rev up for the 2025 season, the world of IndyCar racing is set to welcome a fresh face to its circuit. Jacob Abel, a young and promising driver at just 23 years old, will be joining Dale Coyne Racing as a full-time driver. With an impressive track record in the Indy NXT circuit over the past three years, Abel is poised to make an indelible mark in the competitive arena of the NTT IndyCar Series.
A Promising Journey
Jacob Abel's journey to the forefront of IndyCar has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days in Formula 3, Formula 4, and the Indy Pro 2000 series between 2019 and 2021, Abel has consistently demonstrated his racing prowess. His performance in the Indy NXT circuit further underscores his capabilities. Last season, Abel secured three race victories and reached the podium in an impressive 10 out of 14 races. Such achievements earned him the second spot in the points standings, following an eighth-place finish as a rookie.
Abel's readiness for the big leagues was evident during an evaluation test conducted at Sebring in the fall. "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," commented Dale Coyne, indicating the high expectations set for Abel in his upcoming IndyCar debut.
The Dale Coyne Racing Connection
Abel's collaboration with Dale Coyne Racing is particularly noteworthy. This renowned team is known for its competitive edge and strategic approaches within the racing community. Abel will be driving the No. 51 car for the entirety of the season, a shift from the multiple-driver strategy Dale Coyne Racing utilized in 2024. The focus on a single driver represents a new chapter for the team, aiming for consistency and cohesion throughout the season.
"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," added Dale Coyne, highlighting the strategic vision behind this decision.
Building on Relationships and Experience
For Abel, the transition to a full-time role with Dale Coyne Racing is a natural progression, facilitated by a strong relationship with the team principal over the past few years. "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," expressed Abel. His anticipation is palpable as he looks forward to working with both new and returning personnel, confident in their ability to deliver a competitive race car and support his growth in the IndyCar arena.
Eyeing the Season Opener
The upcoming season promises to be a thrilling ride for Abel and his team. Preparations are well underway, with testing scheduled at California’s Thermal Club in late January. These sessions will serve as crucial groundwork for Abel as he gears up for his much-anticipated IndyCar debut on March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida.
As the motorsports community eagerly watches Jacob Abel's trajectory in the IndyCar series, the blend of youthful energy and proven skill sets a promising stage for his career. With the backing of Dale Coyne Racing and the stability offered by a full-season drive in the No. 51 car, Abel is well-positioned to harness the opportunity ahead.
With the season opener just around the corner, fans and racing enthusiasts alike will keep a keen eye on Jacob Abel as he aims to translate his prior successes into a formidable presence in the IndyCar world. Whether contending with seasoned veterans or establishing new milestones, Abel's journey reflects both the excitement and the challenges that lie at the heart of racing. Here, in the high-octane environment of the NTT IndyCar Series, Abel is ready to make his mark.