Dale Coyne Racing solidified its 2026 IndyCar driver lineup by signing 2025 Indy NXT champion Dennis Hauger on Tuesday, addressing a driver vacancy that had lingered due to the expiration of all current contracts. The team joins Juncos Hollinger Racing and AJ Foyt Racing in searching for drivers as single-year deals expire after the 2025 finale in Nashville.
With three open seats available across these teams, five contenders are competing for a spot. Each candidate’s ability to bring significant sponsorship or financial backing is a crucial factor shaping these negotiations. The battle for placement remains tight as the IndyCar offseason unfolds.
Jacob Abel’s Prospects After a Difficult Debut Season
Jacob Abel, who struggled throughout his rookie IndyCar season in 2025, remains in contention primarily due to late-season improvements. Despite on-track challenges, Abel is still viewed as a driver worth considering for a role within the series.
His financial backing through ABEL Motorsports, the Indy NXT team founded by his father Bill Abel, strengthens his case in the market. At 24 years old, Abel’s family team sponsors provide a significant resource, keeping him competitive for a seat in 2026.
Linus Lundqvist’s Ongoing Efforts to Secure a Ride
Linus Lundqvist won the 2024 IndyCar Rookie of the Year award and was initially signed by Chip Ganassi Racing for the 2025 season. However, Ganassi released him early in 2025 to pursue another driver, Kyffin Simpson. Since then, the 26-year-old has remained active, attending most race weekends to maintain strong relationships with team owners and keep his availability prominent.
Lundqvist’s persistence earned him a reserve driver role with Arrow McLaren during the Indianapolis Toronto weekend, stepping in when Nolan Siegel was sidelined due to concussion. As of now, he is a plausible candidate to join Dennis Hauger at Dale Coyne Racing in 2026.
Romain Grosjean’s Bid to Return After a Year Off
2025 saw Romain Grosjean off the track after losing his seat at Juncos Hollinger Racing in the prior season. Despite this setback, he remained closely tied to IndyCar by serving as a reserve driver for PREMA Racing, the series’ newest team.
Looking ahead to 2026, Grosjean is actively pursuing a full-time seat, with rumors placing Dale Coyne Racing as his primary potential destination. The former Formula 1 driver’s experience and profile add depth to the list of contenders for the vacant positions.
Conor Daly’s Fight to Maintain a Full-Time Ride
Conor Daly stood out on oval tracks during the 2025 season, impressing with his aggressive use of the high line that often challenged and outperformed competitors. However, like Dale Coyne Racing, Juncos Hollinger Racing prioritizes drivers who bring substantial financial support.
After losing a $3.5 million sponsor shortly before the season, Daly demonstrated remarkable business savvy by securing additional sponsorships midseason, allowing him to hold onto his full-time role. At 33, he is currently in discussions with both Juncos Hollinger Racing and AJ Foyt Racing as he seeks to maintain his IndyCar presence in 2026.
Rinus Veekay Emerges as the Leading Contender for 2026
Having exceeded expectations during the 2025 season — including a surprise podium at the Indy Toronto — Rinus Veekay was initially offered a contract renewal by Dale Coyne Racing. The Dutch driver, however, declined the offer and confirmed he will not return to DCR in 2026.
Early speculation suggested Veekay might take over the No. 4 Chevy at AJ Foyt Racing, replacing David Malukas who is moving to Team Penske. Recent developments now position Veekay as the main contender to fill the No. 76 Chevy at Juncos Hollinger Racing, potentially replacing Conor Daly.
Implications for the 2026 IndyCar Driver Lineup
The competition for the three open seats on these teams is shaping up to be one of the most intense in recent memory, with a blending of young talent and experienced drivers all vying for limited opportunities. Sponsorship involvement continues to play a decisive role, shaping the choices made by team owners who balance performance potential with financial realities.
With Dennis Hauger’s early signing at Dale Coyne Racing, the ripple effect among other teams will likely accelerate, especially as final decisions approach. The outcomes will not only define each team’s competitiveness for the upcoming season but also shape the careers of these drivers whose futures remain uncertain.
“IndyCar’s driver market this offseason is perhaps one of the most competitive in years, with financial backing being just as important as on-track skill.” – Yash Kotak, Motorsports Journalist
