In a move that underscores the gradual ascent of new racing talent, Jacob Abel is set to take on the 2025 season as a full-time driver for Dale Coyne Racing. The 23-year-old, who has been diligently honing his skills on the Indy NXT circuit over the last three years, will command the No. 51 car, representing a significant step forward in his promising career.
A Calculated Ascent
Abel’s journey through the ranks of motor racing has been one marked by resilience and consistent performance. His tenure in the Indy NXT circuit has been particularly noteworthy, where he steadily developed a reputation for excellence. Last season, Abel clinched three race wins and claimed podium finishes in 10 out of 14 outings, showcasing his potential on the track. His progression in the points standings, where he leapt from an eighth-place finish as a rookie to a runner-up position last year, further highlights an impressive upward trajectory.
The young driver’s experience extends beyond Indy NXT. From 2019 to 2021, Abel competed in both Formula 3 and 4, as well as the Indy Pro 2000 series, building a versatile foundation critical for his future in high-stakes racing.
The Coyne Factor
Joining Dale Coyne Racing is a defining moment for Abel, who has nurtured a strong relationship with the team’s owner, Dale Coyne. “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 remarked, expressing trust in the team’s capabilities. “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.”
Coyne himself has faith in Abel’s abilities. “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,” Coyne stated. Committing to a single driver for the entire season is strategic, offering an opportunity to focus on the consistency necessary for success in the fierce NTT IndyCar Series.
A Season of Transition
Dale Coyne Racing’s approach in 2025 marks a shift from past strategies, having deployed multiple drivers in the No. 51 car only a year prior. This upcoming season, however, sees them consolidating around Abel in an effort to build continuity and harness the full potential of dedicated car development over an entire calendar.
Abel’s journey to full-time driver status began with an evaluative effort at Sebring during the fall, a notorious proving ground for emerging talents. He is expected to continue refining his craft with further testing at California’s Thermal Club in late January, all in preparation for his highly anticipated IndyCar debut on March 2 in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Anticipating the Challenge
The upcoming season doesn’t just promise excitement; it represents a professional challenge that Abel is eager to embrace. Driving the No. 51 car for Dale Coyne Racing not only allows Abel to put his skills to the test but also offers him the chance to navigate the complexities of high-octane competition surrounded by seasoned veterans and equally hungry newcomers.
“It’s going to be a fun but challenging journey, and I can’t wait to get started,” said Abel, eager to hit the racetrack armed with determination and the support of a well-rounded team. The next few months promise crucial preparation as Abel and his team fine-tune their strategies and perfect the symbiosis between driver and machine.
With Abel being the centerpiece of Dale Coyne Racing’s plans for the No. 51 car, there remains the tantalizing prospect of another announcement regarding their No. 18 driver. Such developments illustrate the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the motorsport landscape, where anticipation is only matched by the potential for breakthrough performances.
The 2025 IndyCar season is set to be a pivotal chapter in Jacob Abel's racing career, potentially solidifying his status as an up-and-comer with the skills and determination to make a lasting mark.