A New Chapter in IndyCar Racing: Jacob Abel Joins Dale Coyne Racing
As the landscape of IndyCar racing continues to evolve, Dale Coyne Racing has made a strategic move by announcing Jacob Abel as their full-time driver for the No. 51 car in the 2025 season. This decision marks a significant milestone for both Abel and the team, with expectations running high as Abel prepares to make his debut in St. Petersburg, Florida, on March 2.
Rising Through the Ranks
Jacob Abel may be a newcomer to Dale Coyne Racing, but his journey in motorsport showcases a tenure of dedication and achievement. At just 23 years old, Abel has been rigorously competing on the Indy NXT circuit for the past three years. His performance in the most recent season, securing three race victories and reaching the podium in 10 of the 14 races, speaks volumes about his talent and determination.
His rapid ascent in the rankings—finishing eighth in the points standings as a rookie and later becoming the runner-up—suggests a racer with both skill and untapped potential. Abel's previous experience includes competing in Formula 3 and 4, as well as the Indy Pro 2000 series between 2019 and 2021. With each race, he has continued to cultivate a reputation for being a tenacious and formidable competitor.
A Strategic Partnership
Abel's move to Dale Coyne Racing solidifies a collaboration built on mutual respect and confidence. "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. His gratitude extends to the seasoned team personnel at Dale Coyne Racing, whom he trusts to deliver a top-tier race car, providing him with the support necessary to excel in the fiercely competitive NTT IndyCar Series.
The decision to appoint Abel as the sole driver for the No. 51 car marks a shift in Dale Coyne Racing’s strategy. Whereas the team experimented with multiple drivers last season, having a single dedicated driver promises consistency—a crucial factor in refining performance and fostering success throughout the season. As Dale Coyne himself stated, "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."
Preparations Underway
Jacob Abel's preparation for the 2025 season is already in full swing. He recently participated in an evaluation test at Sebring in the fall, a proving ground where his compatibility with the team and machinery was scrutinized. Dale Coyne shared that Abel showed "great promise in these cars," a promising assessment that bodes well for the season ahead.
Looking to the near future, Abel is slated to begin further testing at California’s Thermal Club in late January. This preparatory work is a crucial part of his transition to IndyCar, simulating the challenging conditions and competition he will face come March.
Looking Ahead
The move to Dale Coyne Racing not only represents a new chapter for Jacob Abel but also an opportunity for the team to hone its competitive edge. With a full-time driver named for the No. 51 car, there remains anticipation for the unveiling of the driver for the No. 18 car, a revelation expected in the coming weeks.
As Abel stands on the cusp of his IndyCar debut, the racing community watches with eager anticipation. The synergy between an accomplished young driver and a team committed to excellence sets the stage for a captivating season. As Abel himself encapsulates, "It's going to be a fun but challenging journey, and I can't wait to get started."