In an announcement in September, Rinus Veekay revealed himself as a free agent after he departed from Ed Carpenter Racing due to his inability to negotiate a new contract with the team. It’s speculated that the failure to agree to a contract for 2025 was mainly due to Veekay’s shaky performances over the past couple of seasons. The driver could only place fifth at Iowa’s doubleheader and secured six top tens, landing him in 13th overall. Still, this wasn’t enough to keep him from being cut loose from Ed Carpenter Racing and replaced by Andretti’s Alexander Rossi.
Not a Free Agent for Long
The incident is shocking, considering Rinus Veekay has been with the team since his Indy debut in 2019. There are many uncertainties, but Rinus Veekay remains determined to find a way back into the driver’s seat for the 2025 season starting in March. Aside from his less-than-favorable past two seasons, he did bring Ed Carpenter Racing undeniable success during his stint there. He recently shared that while things seem up in the air for the time being, he’s ready to return and is confident he’ll be able to make it happen with all the success he has accrued as an Indy driver.
Impressively, at only 24 years old, the Dutch native has secured 80 total wins, including his Grand Prix of Indianapolis win in 2021, so there’s no questioning the value he’ll bring to a team looking for a full-time driver. The only problem he may run into is the charter approved last month, which only allows three cars per charter. Still, the fact that team owners know he’s not a paying driver is a good selling point, and his manager, Adrian Sussman, is actively seeking potential leads, meaning he won’t be a free agent for long.
“It takes a bit of hard work. It’s a situation I’ve never been in. But with me right now, being 24 years old, having done 80 races in IndyCar, I think that’s quite valuable, especially with my Indy 500 record. I think the teams that that will have an opportunity know I’m not a paying a driver, so I’m very confident about the possibilities.”
Will Rinus Veekay Race in IMSA?
With his IndyCar future hanging in the balance, Rinus Veekay has considered adding some IMSA Weathertech Sportscar Championship events to his schedule for 2025. However, he plans to secure a full-time spot on an Indy Team next season. His focus has been and will always remain with IndyCar. He could try a stint with the International Motorsports Association, the premier sanctioning body in North American sports car racing with a growing fan following. However, he’s not entirely convinced yet.
Additionally, because of Veekay’s notoriety and immense talent as a racer in IndyCar, it wouldn’t take long to make a name for himself in the sport. Nonetheless, Veekay remains loyal to IndyCar and fears if he doesn’t find his way onto a team for the 2025 season, it will take him a while to pick up where he left off in 2024 due to the high competitiveness of it. Whatever the case may be, you’ll see the Indy star back on the track to top his records of 4 podiums, nine top 5’s, 2 Poles, and 80 Starts in some fashion for the 2025 season.
“My main focus is IndyCar,” he affirmed. “I’m open to doing IMSA, but my priority is a full IndyCar season. It’s such a competitive series that if you sit out even one year, it takes another to catch up. I’m committed to being there full-time, and I believe I should be,” Veekay stated.
Final Thoughts
Though Rinus Veekay currently stands as a free agent for 2025, he’s optimistic about where he’ll end up after his split from Ed Carpenter Racing in September. He knows what he brings and is looking to expand this as he continues his career as an IndyCar driver in the NTT Series. He feels that the fact that he is a non-paying driver will give him a leg up on others in the business who are, and this could perhaps factor into whether he will sign with a team or remain free-standing for the time being. He hasn’t entirely ruled out the prospect of racing in IMSA, although his heart openly remains dedicated to Open-Wheel.
For More Great Content
Craving top-tier content that covers it all? From electrifying sports highlights and insider entertainment news to expert gaming tips and sharp betting advice, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the lowdown on gaming strategies that could level up your play.
Plus, our betting advice will sharpen your edge and boost your chances of winning big. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, our content is your go-to source for all things exciting and relevant. Don’t miss out–explore now and power up your knowledge! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports, to stay informed.
