Myles Rowe of Abel Motorsports, inspired by seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, made history in the Indy NXT series by becoming the first Black driver to secure a win. His triumph came during the 2025 Indy NXT By Firestone race held at Iowa Speedway, marking a significant milestone in motorsports diversity.
Rowe’s breakthrough moment involved a dramatic overtaking move against Dennis Hauger from Andretti Global, who had dominated the race by leading 61 of the 75 laps. Rowe executed his pass with 14 laps remaining, seizing the lead in an intense battle on the oval track.
During the live FOX broadcast, commentators captured the thrilling moment:
“Lost all that track position, just trying to hang on right now. Dennis goes high here, Myles Rowe with the run. He’s got a chance, looking to the outside, side-by-side, Myles Rowe leads at the Iowa Speedway.”
Background on Myles Rowe’s Racing Journey
At 25 years old, Myles Rowe is in his second season competing in Indy NXT, after claiming the 2023 USF Pro Championship. His career has been closely supported by the Force Indy program, affiliated with Penske Entertainment’s Race for Equality and Change initiative, which aims to promote diversity within motorsports.
Rowe’s involvement in Force Indy was recommended by two-time IndyCar champion Will Power, emphasizing the trust and encouragement he has gained from established figures in racing. Prior to Indy NXT, Rowe demonstrated strong performances in USF2000 during 2021 and 2022, followed by the USF Pro 2000 series in 2023.
Notably, Rowe made history early in his career by becoming the first Black driver to win an INDYCAR-sanctioned race at New Jersey Motorsports Park in August 2021, during his rookie USF2000 season.
The Influence of Lewis Hamilton on Myles Rowe’s Career
Reflecting on his achievements, Rowe has credited Lewis Hamilton for being a major inspiration in his racing journey. In a September 2023 interview with Motorsport Magazine, he expressed the broader significance of representation in motorsports for young Black fans and aspiring drivers.
“I think it is extremely important that we represent, in a very positive way, people like us around the world, for young people to see it and think: I can do this. Certainly, Lewis Hamilton has had that impact. Even here in this country, when a lot of kids – especially black kids – don’t know anything about racing, when they see Myles, it means something. It’s extremely important for me, because when I was a kid, looking at Lewis, he was breaking all the records.”
Future Prospects for Myles Rowe in Motorsports
Myles Rowe’s historic win at the Iowa Speedway has positioned him as an emerging figure in American open-wheel racing. His success offers a promising example of progress towards greater inclusivity in the sport. As he continues to build on his achievements supported by programs like Force Indy and figures such as Will Power, Rowe’s career will be closely watched by the motorsports community.
This landmark victory, inspired by Lewis Hamilton’s trailblazing legacy, is expected to encourage more diversity and open doors for future talents in racing. The impact of Rowe’s win extends beyond the track, contributing to ongoing efforts to diversify participation in competitive motorsports.