As NASCAR approaches the end of its two-week summer break due to the 2024 Paris Olympics, the rumor mill has been spinning faster than ever. With all three national series on pause, speculation is growing about major changes in the Xfinity and Cup Series.

The Future of Haas Factory Team in Xfinity

One of the biggest topics of discussion revolves around the Haas Factory team in the Xfinity Series. Many insiders believe that the team will be just as competitive as Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) has been in the Cup Series. While behind-the-scenes changes are expected, the on-track performance is anticipated to remain strong.

The big question is: who will be behind the wheel? Reports suggest that multiple drivers are assessing their current situations and considering whether their current manufacturer alliances will lead them to the Cup Series. This uncertainty could lead to some surprising moves.

Chase Briscoe’s Career Path as an Example

Chase Briscoe’s journey serves as a prime example of how drivers navigate manufacturer relationships and career opportunities. Briscoe, a long-time Ford driver, received an unexpected opportunity from Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), a top Toyota team. Despite Toyota’s deep pool of development drivers in Xfinity, Briscoe leapfrogged the line by accepting the offer, proving that talent and opportunity often outweigh long-term manufacturer commitments.

This scenario highlights a growing trend—drivers are willing to switch allegiances if it means a clearer path to NASCAR’s top level. That reality could shake up the 2025 Xfinity and Cup Series rosters significantly.

Potential Moves: Sheldon Creed and Haley Deegan

Among the drivers rumored to be considering new opportunities, Sheldon Creed and Haley Deegan stand out as prime candidates for moves to the Haas Factory team.

• Sheldon Creed: Despite showing promise, Creed has yet to secure an Xfinity Series victory. However, many believe his breakthrough is imminent, whether at JGR this season or with another team next year. The rumor mill suggests he could take the wheel of the No. 00 car for Haas Factory in 2025.

• Haley Deegan: Deegan’s NASCAR journey has been turbulent. Her split from AM Racing left her feeling that the team failed to provide competitive equipment, data, and resources. AM Racing replaced her with Josh Berry and Joey Logano, both of whom have performed well in her absence. However, as a rookie in the Xfinity Series, Deegan is still adjusting to the learning curve, much like Shane van Gisbergen, who has struggled on ovals despite excelling on road courses.

  

What’s Next?

As teams and drivers prepare for the second half of the season, expect more announcements and potential driver swaps. The Haas Factory team is shaping up to be a major player in the Xfinity Series, and their driver lineup could include some surprising names. Meanwhile, drivers like Creed and Deegan will be looking for the best opportunities to secure their futures in NASCAR.

With so many moving pieces, one thing is certain: the NASCAR landscape is about to experience a major shift.