Overview
- Abel Motorsports, which announced the move Monday, returns to the Indianapolis 500 for the first time since 2023 and becomes the 32nd confirmed entrant.
- Jacob Abel will attempt to qualify after being the lone driver bumped in 2025 with Dale Coyne Racing, following a 2024 INDY NXT season with wins and poles and a 2026 stint in IMSA and the Asian Le Mans Series.
- The program will field the No. 51 Chevrolet with team manager John Brunner overseeing the effort and Abel Construction Company as the primary sponsor.
- Preparation ramps up with open oval tests on April 28–29, official practice starting May 12, qualifying on May 16–17, and the May 24 race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
- One entry remains to reach the traditional 33-car field, with outlets reporting possibilities such as A.J. Foyt Racing or Prema Racing, and any total above 33 would trigger bumping in qualifying where the slowest cars miss the race.