Dale Coyne Racing Seeks New Lead Driver After VeeKay Departure
Dale Coyne Racing is on the hunt for a new lead driver following the departure of Rinus VeeKay. Confirmed by VeeKay’s agent, Adrian Sussman, the decision comes after significant contributions from VeeKay helped stabilize the team, which saw a substantial performance improvement in 2025. “Rinus loved being part of the team,” Sussman stated, highlighting the mutual benefits of their partnership.
The announcement follows a press conference in Nashville, where Dale Coyne Racing unveiled its sponsorship package for the No. 18 Honda and intended to confirm VeeKay’s return. However, an unexpected opportunity arose elsewhere in the paddock, prompting VeeKay’s exit.
VeeKay joined Coyne Racing just before the season, managing to secure a 14th-place finish in the standings, a noteworthy achievement considering the team’s last-place finish in the preceding year when four drivers shared the spot. His performance was commended as a turnaround for the operation, evidencing his pivotal role in the team’s resurgence.
While specific details about VeeKay’s next move remain under wraps, sources indicate he is poised to join AJ Foyt Racing alongside Santino Ferrucci. This shift is expected to fill the vacancy left by David Malukas, who is likely to succeed Will Power at Team Penske.
Penske’s ongoing technical alliance with Foyt could further enhance the competitiveness of the No. 4 Chevy, as VeeKay’s experience will be invaluable for both teams. The confirmation of Power’s transition to Andretti is anticipated soon, while the timeline for Malukas’s move to Penske remains uncertain.
