Dennis Hauger, the 2025 Indy NXT champion and former FIA Formula 2 driver, has officially been signed by Dale Coyne Racing for the 2026 IndyCar season. This announcement coincides with Dale Coyne Racing revealing a new technical partnership with Andretti Global, set to begin in 2026, marking a significant step in Hauger’s transition to IndyCar competition.
The Norwegian driver, once part of the Red Bull Junior Team and reserve driver for the Formula 1 squad, shifted his focus from European open-wheel racing to the United States before the 2025 season began. Hauger joined Indy NXT with Andretti Global, quickly establishing himself as a dominant force by winning six out of fourteen races and rarely missing the podium. His championship victory sparked speculation about a future IndyCar move, which has now been confirmed with Dale Coyne Racing’s recent announcement.
With Dale Coyne Racing facing a driver lineup turnover—Rinus VeeKay’s departure after 2025 and no confirmed news on Jacob Abel’s status—signing Hauger alongside a technical collaboration with Andretti Global aims to bolster the team’s performance. This partnership aligns with Hauger’s prior relationship with Andretti Global, offering continuity as he embarks on his rookie IndyCar season.
Dennis Hauger Expresses Enthusiasm Joining Dale Coyne Racing
Reflecting on his new role, Dennis Hauger expressed his excitement about joining Dale Coyne Racing for his rookie campaign in IndyCar. He praised the team’s progress throughout the current year and appreciated their confidence in his potential to compete at this elevated level of racing.
“I’m excited to be joining Dale Coyne Racing for my rookie INDYCAR season. The progress the team has shown this year is really impressive, and it’s an honor to take my place on the grid with them in 2026. I want to thank Dale Coyne and everyone at the team for putting their trust in me,” said Dennis Hauger.
Hauger also highlighted the importance of the technical alliance with Andretti Global, noting how familiar faces and ongoing support from his former team will enhance his rookie year in the series.
“It’ll also be nice to see some familiar faces through the team’s technical partnership with Andretti Global. They’ve been a big part of my success since making the switch, so having their involvement in another rookie season for me will be great,” he added.
Dale Coyne Racing’s New Technical Alliance with Andretti Global
Dale Coyne Racing’s new technical partnership with Andretti Global, starting in 2026, follows a strategic pattern within IndyCar where leading teams collaborate to pool resources and expertise. Previously, Andretti Global partnered with AJ Foyt Racing until that team aligned with Team Penske. Similarly, Chip Ganassi Racing maintains a technical link with Meyer Shank Racing. This alliance brings fresh technical resources and experience to Dale Coyne Racing.
Team owner Dale Coyne conveyed his enthusiasm about the opportunity to onboard both a talented driver and a strong technical partner.
“This is a great opportunity for us here at DCR to bring on a talented driver and gain a strong technical partner in Andretti Global. Thanks to Dan (Towriss, Andretti Global team partner) and his belief in our sport and his dedication to elevating Dennis to the top of the ladder,” said Dale Coyne as he spoke about the Technical Alliance.
Future Outlook for Dennis Hauger and Dale Coyne Racing
Looking ahead, Dennis Hauger’s placement at Dale Coyne Racing may serve as a stepping stone toward a full-time seat with Andretti Global in the 2027 IndyCar season. This potential path mirrors how David Malukas spent a year with AJ Foyt Racing before advancing to Team Penske. With contracts of current Andretti drivers Kyle Kirkwood and Marcus Ericsson ending after 2026, Hauger could be a strong candidate to fill one of those seats.
Through this technical collaboration and driver acquisition, Dale Coyne Racing fortifies its competitive edge while supporting one of motorsports’ brightest rising stars. For Dennis Hauger, the 2026 season offers a crucial opportunity to showcase his talent on IndyCar’s premier platform, building on his outstanding performance in Indy NXT and his prior experience in European racing circuits.
