Get To Know IndyCar Driver: Rinus Veekay – Dale Coyne Racing
Get To Know IndyCar Driver: Rinus Veekay – Dale Coyne Racing
When discussing the newest generation of talented IndyCar drivers, one name that’s swiftly making waves is Rinus VeeKay.
Known for his fearless driving style and impressive adaptability, VeeKay is carving out a reputation as one of the sport’s most exciting young competitors.
Whether he’s hurtling toward victory or pushing the car to its limits on the Indianapolis 500 course, VeeKay has proven he’s here to stay.
Get to know more about this Dutch sensation, from his early love of motorsport to his Indianapolis 500 performances and his rising IndyCar career.
From the Netherlands to the IndyCar Circuit
Rinus VeeKay, born Rinus van Kalmthout on September 11, 2000, in Hoofddorp, Netherlands, grew up in a family that loved racing.
He was introduced to motorsport at a young age and quickly displayed a natural talent behind the wheel.
His passion led him into karting, where he began stacking up wins in Dutch and European championships.
It soon became clear that VeeKay had what it took to succeed at the highest level.
Determined to follow his dream, VeeKay transitioned to formula racing as a teenager, competing in Formula 4 and later in Euroformula Open, where he continued to impress with his raw speed and racecraft.
His steady rise through the ranks of European racing eventually caught international attention, leading him across the Atlantic to the U.S.
Rising Through the American Racing Ranks
The move to America proved to be a turning point for VeeKay.
He joined the Road to Indy program, an initiative aimed at developing young talent for the prestigious IndyCar Series.
Competing in the U.S. F2000 National Championship in 2017, VeeKay made an immediate impression, finishing second overall.
The following seasons were marked by continued success.
He dominated the Pro Mazda Championship (now Indy Pro 2000) in 2018, winning six races and the championship title.
This strong performance earned him a spot in the Indy Lights series, where he continued to showcase his potential with another runner-up finish in 2019, securing wins along the way.
It didn’t take long before VeeKay’s name popped up on IndyCar team owner radars.
His rapid rise and stellar performances paved the way to his IndyCar debut.
Rinus VeeKay’s Jump to IndyCar
VeeKay joined Ed Carpenter Racing for the 2020 IndyCar season, making him one of the youngest drivers in the field.
RELATED | Veekay Out at Ed Carpenter Racing
Despite the challenges of adapting to one of the top levels of motorsport during a pandemic-stricken season, VeeKay proved he belonged.
He showcased his skill early on, notably clinching his first career pole position at the Harvest GP in Indianapolis and finishing third in the race.
His maiden podium was only the beginning, as VeeKay demonstrated he was a force to be reckoned with on both road courses and ovals.
The 2021 season marked an incredible milestone for the young driver.
At just 20 years old, VeeKay earned his first IndyCar victory at the Grand Prix of Indianapolis.
Displaying flawless driving and strategy, he led 33 laps of the race, cementing his place as one of the series’ brightest up-and-comers.
In 2025 he now races for Dale Coyne Racing.
Notable Performances at the Indianapolis 500
The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most iconic and demanding races in motorsport, and Rinus VeeKay has already made a name for himself at the event.
His fearless approach and knack for excelling at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway have left a lasting impression.
VeeKay made his Indy 500 debut in 2020.
Driving with courage and determination, he finished as the highest-placing rookie in the race, taking sixth place overall.
With nearly a month of build-up and the sheer weight of competing in “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” this was no small accomplishment.
Each year since his debut, VeeKay has continued to grow as a competitor at the Brickyard.
His standout moment came during the 2022 Indy 500, where he secured his first front-row start after qualifying third.
Though mechanical issues prevented him from claiming a top finish in the race, his superb qualifying speed once again demonstrated his capabilities on the sport’s grandest stage.
The Indianapolis 500 remains an ambitious target for VeeKay, and with his trajectory, it feels only a matter of time before he finds himself drinking the milk in Victory Lane.
A Driving Style Built for Success
What makes Rinus VeeKay such a captivating talent is his aggressive yet calculated driving style.
He’s not afraid to make daring moves, whether it’s a bold pass on a crowded street circuit or a breathtaking maneuver in the high-speed draft of an oval.
But beyond his raw speed, VeeKay also understands the strategic elements of racing.
His ability to manage tire wear, fuel consumption, and racecraft has allowed him to compete with seasoned drivers well beyond his years.
Balancing Life On and Off the Track
When he’s not racing at over 200 mph, VeeKay remains grounded and focused.
He’s known for his approachable personality and strong connection with fans, especially in his home country of the Netherlands, where he’s quickly becoming a household name.
VeeKay also trains hard to maintain his physical and mental edge, acknowledging the intense demands of IndyCar racing.
His commitment to excellence both on and off the track underscores why he has the potential for a long and successful career in the sport.
The Road Ahead for Rinus VeeKay
At just 23 years old, Rinus VeeKay has already achieved milestones that many drivers dream of, and his future only promises more success.
Whether he’s thrilling fans with bold moves or making his mark at the Indianapolis 500, VeeKay is a driver to watch.
With the perfect blend of skill, determination, and passion for racing, Rinus VeeKay is on a trajectory toward greatness in IndyCar.
The sky’s the limit for this rising star, and fans around the world can eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his thrilling career.