Jacob Abel: Rising Star Joins Dale Coyne Racing for 2025 IndyCar Series
As the motorsport community gears up for the 2025 season, one rising star is set to make waves in the IndyCar Series. Jacob Abel, a promising talent with three years of experience on the Indy NXT circuit, is stepping into the spotlight as a full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing. At just 23 years old, Abel's rapid ascent in the racing world has been marked by impressive performances and a keen aptitude for the sport. With his eyes set on the horizon, Abel is poised to make his mark driving the No. 51 car for the entire season.
Abel's journey to IndyCar has been one of notable progression and determination. Over the past three seasons in Indy NXT, he has consistently demonstrated his potential, achieving a remarkable record last season. Abel clinched three victories and stood on the podium in 10 out of 14 races, a testament to his skill and competitive spirit. In his rookie year, he ranked eighth in the points standings, showcasing significant improvement by finishing as the runner-up last year. These accomplishments have positioned him as a formidable contender for the top tier of open-wheel racing in America.
In late 2023, Abel participated in an evaluation test at Sebring, spearheaded by Dale Coyne Racing, where he impressed team officials with his adaptability and promise in the NTT IndyCar Series cars. This evaluation paved the way for his upcoming role as the single driver in the No. 51 car for the 2025 season, a strategic move by Dale Coyne Racing to ensure consistency and focus within the team. "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," said Dale Coyne, acknowledging the promising skills Abel exhibited. "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."
This season marks a shift for Dale Coyne Racing, which previously fielded multiple drivers in 2024. By centering their efforts on a single athlete, the team aims to leverage Abel's potential while fostering a stable and focused environment. Such a decision underscores the team's confidence in Abel's abilities and signals their commitment to nurturing his development as a top-tier driver.
Abel, for his part, is keenly aware of the challenge and opportunity that lie ahead. Reflecting on his relationship with the team and the upcoming season, he expressed gratitude and excitement. "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."
The young driver's rigorous preparation for the season will commence with testing at California's Thermal Club in late January, laying the groundwork for what promises to be a demanding yet exhilarating campaign. Abel is set to make his official IndyCar debut on March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida, an eagerly anticipated event that will showcase his talents to a broader audience.
Before venturing into Indy NXT, Jacob Abel honed his racing skills in various categories, including Formula 3 and 4, and the Indy Pro 2000 series between 2019 and 2021. These experiences have shaped his understanding of the sport, arming him with the technical knowledge and competitive mindset necessary to excel at the highest levels.
As motorsport enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the start of the IndyCar season, all eyes will be on Jacob Abel as he embarks on this new chapter with Dale Coyne Racing. His journey promises to be emblematic of his growth and potential, a thrilling narrative in the ever-evolving story of racing's next generation.