The motorsport world is abuzz with the announcement that Jacob Abel will step into the role of a full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing in 2025. At just 23 years old, Abel is garnering attention for his steady ascent through the ranks, culminating in this opportunity with one of the more strategic teams in the NTT IndyCar Series.
Abel's journey has been an impressive one. Over the past three years, he has honed his skills on the Indy NXT circuit, a critical stepping stone for rising stars in open-wheel racing. His performance has been remarkable, with a string of achievements in the last season alone, including three victories and podium finishes in 10 out of 14 races. Such accomplishments have cemented his reputation as a competitive and consistent driver, traits highly regarded in the high-stakes environment of IndyCar racing.
Acknowledging Abel's talent and promise, Dale Coyne, the team owner, remarked, "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." Coyne's sentiments reflect the strategic shift for the team, which ran multiple drivers in 2024. The decision to commit to a single driver for the No. 51 car reflects an emphasis on consistency and development over the course of a full season.
Preparation and Testing
Before the 2025 season kicks off, Abel has a rigorous regimen of testing and preparation lined up. He participated in an evaluation test at Sebring this past fall, which showcased his adaptability and ability to handle the car. The next phase of his preparation will commence in late January at California’s Thermal Club, where extensive testing will further hone his skills and facilitate his transition to the top tier of open-wheel racing.
Abel is scheduled to make his IndyCar debut on March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida—a circuit known for its mix of scenic waterfront vistas and challenging turns, promising both excitement and a testing ground for newcomers. He will pilot the No. 51 car for Dale Coyne Racing, a formidable machine under the stewardship of a team renowned for its strategic insights and technical prowess.
Building on Experience
Jacob Abel's foundation in motorsports is rooted in his diverse experience across several racing series. Between 2019 and 2021, he competed in Formula 3, Formula 4, and the Indy Pro 2000 series, gaining valuable knowledge and refining his racing acumen. This experience not only enhances his adaptability but also positions him as a well-rounded competitor poised to tackle the challenges of an entire IndyCar season.
Reflecting on his journey and the opportunity ahead, Abel shared, "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."
Future Aspirations
As the team gears up for the 2025 season, anticipation builds not only around Abel's debut but also regarding the announcement of the full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing's No. 18 car, expected in the coming weeks. This declaration will further shape the team's dynamic as they prepare to compete at the highest level.
In a sport where milliseconds matter and adaptability is key, Jacob Abel's entry into the IndyCar series represents both the culmination of his strategic progression and the beginning of a promising chapter in his racing career. As he prepares to take the wheel, the motorsport community eagerly awaits the impact of his dynamic driving style on the track.