Abel Motorsports confirmed that 25‑year‑old Dutch driver Niels Koolen will join its Indy NXT squad for the 2027 campaign.
From Ganassi to Abel – A Steady Rise
After two seasons with Chip Ganassi Racing, Koolen posted two top‑five finishes, with his best result a fourth place at World Wide Technology Raceway. The Dutchman has been eyeing a higher level of competition, and Abel sees a promising addition for the next season.
Team owner Bill Abel remarked, “I’m delighted to bring Niels aboard. His maturity on the track aligns with Abel’s long‑term vision.” Managing director John Brunner echoed this sentiment, stressing a shared goal of developing the driver’s skills further.
Koolen added, “I’m looking forward to working with Bill, John, and the entire Abel team. The preparation begins with the Chris Griffis Memorial test on October 16 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, followed by Barber Motorsports Park on November 9.”
In addition to U.S. testing, the 2027 schedule includes a winter program abroad. Koolen will compete in the Asian Le Mans Series LMP2 category, racing at multiple European venues to gain extra track mileage before the Indy NXT season opens.
Looking Ahead – Planning, Testing, and Growth
Abel Motorsports highlights both the team’s enthusiasm for Koolen’s development and its commitment to a robust 2027 performance. As the driver balances early-season tests with a demanding winter lineup, the team positions itself to capitalize on Koolen’s momentum and on the expertise of its seasoned personnel.
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