Dennis Hauger, recognized as the 2026 NTT IndyCar Series Rookie of the Year, has secured a significant career milestone by signing a multi-year contract with AJ Foyt Racing. The announcement came on September 16, 2026, following Hauger’s completion of his rookie season with Dale Coyne Racing under a single-year deal. Hauger will pilot the No. 14 Homes For Our Troops Chevrolet, a car formerly driven full-time by Santino Ferrucci, who had notable performances including a third-place finish in the 2023 Indianapolis 500.

Throughout his rookie year, Hauger showed strong potential despite finishing 22nd overall. Notably, he helped Dale Coyne Racing secure $1.7 million in Leader’s Circle payouts with the team’s final position in the program. His best starting position was third at the St. Petersburg opener, and he earned his best race finish of eighth at the Sonsio Grand Prix of Indianapolis. Hauger’s reputation as a rising star is backed by his dominant 2025 INDY NXT By Firestone championship, where he captured six wins in his rookie season and earned the nickname “The Norwegian Nightmare.”

Before transitioning to American racing, Hauger made his mark in European open-wheel competition, winning the Italian Formula 4 title in 2019 and the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2021. He also competed in Formula 2, winning five races, and was a longtime member of the Red Bull Junior Team. Larry Foyt, President of AJ Foyt Racing, praised Hauger’s quick adaptability and winning pedigree, indicating that Hauger is a cornerstone for the team’s future ambitions starting in the 2027 season.

Beyond the racetrack, Hauger will soon engage in public events tied to the No. 14 Homes For Our Troops program, showcasing the car and supporting military veterans. On October 2, he will attend the GM Defense Valor & Velocity Gala in Michigan, emphasizing the team’s commitment to charitable causes and its partnership with Homes For Our Troops, which builds custom homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans. Hauger’s signing marks the first of several lineup announcements expected from AJ Foyt Racing as they focus on building a competitive future with a driver determined to win.