Louisville, Ky. - Top-tier open wheel development team Abel Motorsports of Louisville made its first full-time foray into Road to Indy action this week in South Florida and in Indianapolis, running its two Pro Mazda entries in the official Series test at Homestead Miami Speedway.   Days later the team formally announced its entry into the Pro Mazda Championship Presented by Cooper Tires for 2019.

Team Principal Bill Abel was encouraged by the team’s strong showing at Homestead, and by the reception Abel Motorsports is receiving since confirming its move to Pro Mazda.   “We’ve really stepped up our effort to get ready for the 2019 season,” noted Abel.  “The competition level and the professionalism of the series demand our best effort, which we’re prepared to give.  We’ve made the commitment to buy two strong race cars, we’re staffing up, and our drivers will be ready to answer the challenge come March.”

While the team worked through some normal opening-day teething problems, their potential for success was obvious.  Abel Motorsports will field car No. 51 for full-time driver Jacob Abel of Louisville, a high school senior who’s already found success in several open wheel series, including a top ten run at Road America last year in USF2000, and podium finishes in F3 Americas action.   “I have a lot to learn in these cars,” said Jacob, “but they’re a lot of fun, they’re fast, and they demand a lot from a driver. We’ll be ready to contend for podiums when the season kicks off.  I can’t wait.”

While the team’s second seat is not yet committed, three-time champion Kyle Kirkwood tested in the Abel No. 8 at Homestead.   Kirkwood had little trouble posting the fastest time Monday in limited action.  “Abel Motorsports is a great team,” indicated Kirkwood, who won 28 races in 32 starts in three different types of cars in 2018.  “I’m not sure yet what I’ll be doing in 2019 but driving for Abel Motorsports in Pro Mazda would be great.   They’ll be ready to run up front for sure.”

Abel Motorsports officials are wrapping up the week by meeting key partners and motorsports media at the annual PRI Trade Show in Indianapolis, while making the formal announcement of their Pro Mazda plans. 

ABOUT ABEL MOTORSPORTS: Abel Motorsports has competed in multiple open-wheel developmental series since 2017, winning the inaugural F3 Americas championship in 2018.