BREAKING: Hauger steps up to IndyCar for 2026 with Dale Coyne Racing

Written by Morgan Holiday

Credit: Travis Hinkle

Dale Coyne Racing (DCR) has announced they have signed a contract with 2025 INDY NXT champion Dennis Hauger for the 2026 IndyCar season.

The 22 year-old Norwegian driver came over to race in the United States this past year after a seven year single-seater career in Europe that included three seasons of FIA Formula 2.

In F2, Hauger achieved five race wins and finished a best-placed eighth overall in his second season in the category. He was also a member of the Red Bull Formula One Junior Team from 2017-2023.

Looking for a change of scenery, Hauger switched to INDY NXT with Andretti Global for 2025. In his rookie season in the category, he scored six wins in the 14-race season, only classifying outside of the top five on two occasions on his way to the title.

Now, having achieved the INDY NXT championship, Hauger will officially move up to IndyCar next year with DCR.

“I’m excited to be joining Dale Coyne Racing for my rookie IndyCar season," Hauger commented. "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. 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. I’m looking forward to contributing and starting this next chapter together.”

Speaking about their newest signing, team owner Dale Coyne added: “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 and his belief in our sport and his dedication to elevating Dennis to the top of the ladder.”