Jacob Abel to Make Full-Time IndyCar Debut with Dale Coyne Racing in 2025
In an exciting development for motorsports fans and industry insiders alike, the promising young driver Jacob Abel is set to join the ranks of full-time professional drivers in the prestigious IndyCar Series. Come 2025, Abel will be taking control of the No. 51 car for Dale Coyne Racing, bringing fresh talent and vigor to a team preparing to solidify its presence in the highly competitive circuit.
Abel, at just 23 years of age, has steadily climbed the ranks through persistent hard work, showcasing his potential over the past few years on the Indy NXT circuit. His impressive track record highlights three race victories and a remarkable ten podium finishes out of 14 races in his most recent season. This performance secured him the runner-up spot in the championship standings, further cementing his reputation as a promising driver to watch.
"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," Abel reflected, expressing his enthusiasm ahead of his new role. He continued, "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."
Abel’s friendly rapport with Dale Coyne and their mutual trust is set to play a key role in the team's development. Coyne, a veteran in the motorsport realm, expressed his faith in Abel following an evaluation test at Sebring at the end of the 2023 season. "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. 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," said Coyne.
Dale Coyne Racing's strategy for 2025 includes fielding a single driver in the No. 51 car for the duration of the season, a marked change from last year when they experimented with multiple drivers. This approach underlines a commitment to consistency and the development of cohesive racing strategies essential in the grueling demands of the IndyCar series.
Though Dale Coyne Racing has yet to announce the driver for their No. 18 car, the decision to secure Abel raises anticipation for the team’s future prospects. It signifies not only a new chapter for the organization but also an important milestone in Abel’s career.
The Kentucky-born driver is no stranger to top-tier racing. Before his foray into Indy NXT, Abel competed in other prestigious circuits like Formula 3, Formula 4, and the Indy Pro 2000 series between 2019 and 2021, building a strong foundation of experience and skill. His dedication and consistent performance have laid the groundwork for a promising future.
Looking ahead, Abel will commence testing in late January at California’s Thermal Club. It will be a crucial preparation phase as he readies himself for the challenges of his first full-fledged IndyCar season. The motorsport community eagerly anticipates his official debut, set for March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida—a historic venue that promises intense racing and potentially a new chapter of success for both Abel and Dale Coyne Racing.
Jacob Abel's journey to the IndyCar Series is a testament to his resilience, skill, and the supportive partnerships he has cultivated along the way. As the 2025 season approaches, fans and analysts will undoubtedly keep a keen eye on his performance throughout this pivotal debut year, watching how this young talent navigates the demanding but enthralling world of professional IndyCar racing.