Haley Deegan’s early departure from AM Racing was unfortunate, as she didn’t even get to complete an entire season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. This sudden exit disappointed her fans, who believed in her potential and were eager to see her develop in the series. However, Deegan had promised her supporters that she would work towards returning to competitive racing, and now, it seems she has kept that promise.

Deegan’s Statement and Determination

When announcing her departure from AM Racing, Deegan released the following statement:

“Beginning this season, I had a lot of excitement and hope in taking my next steps in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. It’s something I’ve been working towards for years and always dreamt about. I worked hard to prepare for this season after the team pursued me to drive their car. Unfortunately, it has not turned out the way that I expected. There are always several reasons within a race team as to why things do or do not work, but sadly, our goals no longer align. That being said, myself and AM Racing will be parting ways. The only thing I am focused on is getting back to being competitive. That is all that matters to me.”

This statement reflected her determination to find a better opportunity, and now, it appears she may have found one for the next season.

A New Opportunity with Haas Factory Team?

Deegan’s underwhelming performance at AM Racing was not entirely her fault. Many believed she could have improved if given the right guidance and support, which AM Racing failed to provide. Despite this, the team did not give her a full season to prove herself, leaving many to question whether she truly had a fair chance.

Recently, the newly established Haas Factory Team (HFT) has expressed interest in giving Deegan another shot in the Xfinity Series. The team’s president, Joe Custer, addressed the topic when asked by NBC Sports, saying, “We believe there’s more in her, and we want to be a part of that.” However, he clarified that discussions were still ongoing, and nothing had been finalized.

The Haas Factory Team’s Vision

HFT’s primary goal is to win races. Custer emphasized, “The situation with us at HFT is that we have to win at this level. We are willing to look at all options as far as drivers go. Maybe somebody that is already in the sport. Maybe a Cup driver that comes down. We’ve got to put cars in the winner’s circle.”

Given this focus on competitiveness, some question why HFT would consider Deegan, who is still developing her skills in the Xfinity Series. The answer likely lies in HFT’s two-team structure, where one car will be focused on winning races, while the other will be used to develop young talent. This setup could allow Deegan to grow as a driver without the immediate pressure of securing victories.

Challenges and Similarities with AM Racing

Despite the potential opportunity, there are concerns that HFT may not be much different from AM Racing. Like AM Racing, HFT will be running Ford Mustangs, which have struggled in performance this season across multiple teams. Additionally, both teams have limited resources and data, which can hinder a young driver’s development.

AM Racing’s failure to provide Deegan with the necessary mentorship was a major factor in her struggles. Rookies in the Xfinity Series rarely succeed without proper guidance, and if HFT cannot provide better support, Deegan may face similar challenges once again.

The Marketing Factor

One major advantage Deegan has is her immense popularity. With 1.6 million Instagram followers, she is one of the most followed NASCAR drivers, including those in the Cup Series. This strong fanbase makes her an attractive option for teams looking to boost their brand exposure and sponsorship opportunities.

HFT’s owner, Gene Haas, has made it clear that his main goal with the team is to promote Haas Automation. If Deegan joins, her social media presence could serve as a powerful marketing tool for the team, potentially making her a valuable asset beyond just her on-track performance.

Conclusion

While nothing is confirmed yet, Deegan’s potential move to the Haas Factory Team could provide her with the second chance she needs in the Xfinity Series. However, whether HFT will truly provide a better environment than AM Racing remains to be seen. One thing is certain—her fans will be eagerly watching to see if she can finally unlock her full potential in NASCAR.