Photo: Gavin Baker Photography
Max Garcia has been announced as joining Abel Motorsports in 2026 as he steps up from USF Pro 2000 to Indy Nxt.
The 16-year-old will be going into his fourth year of single-seater racing, and has two titles from the last three years.
As a rookie in USF2000 he came ninth in the standings with two podiums in 2023, then claimed the title last year after starting the campaign with three successive wins.
That gave him a scholarship to step up to USFP2000 for 2025, and he was even more dominant as he became champion with nine victories, four other podiums and nine poles. By winning the title, he got a $594,500 to spend on a 2026 Indy Nxt seat.
“I’m excited to join the team at Abel Motorsports and build upon the momentum they’ve generated coming out of a strong 2025 season,” said Garcia.
“Competition in the Indy Nxt series will be fierce, and I look forward to having an opportunity to rise to the occasion and contend with some of the best.”
Abel plans to have a four-car line-up next year, and is co-running Myles Rowe’s entry with Force Indy.
Garcia’s first mileage in an Indy Nxt car will come in a private test this month at the Autobahn Country Club circuit, then he will join Abel for the official post-season test on Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s road course in October.
“We are really excited to have Max joining us for the 2025 season.” said team owner Bill Abel.
“Although he is very young, his career and accomplishments are very impressive. He is a dedicated, hardworking and quality young man.
“For Abel Motorsports to be able to secure the 2025 USFP2000 champion and the scholarship that comes with that is a big step for the team. It says a lot about where we are today and how competitive we have become in the Indy Nxt championship.”