The NASCAR world was rocked today by the sudden announcement that Hailie Deegan and AM Racing have permanently parted ways. Speculation had been swirling since last week’s decision to replace Deegan with Joey Logano in the No. 15 Ford for the Chicago Xfinity Series race. Now, the split is official, leaving Deegan searching for her next opportunity in a turbulent season.
A Season of Struggles
Deegan, who was in the midst of her first full-time Xfinity Series season, expressed her disappointment in a heartfelt statement. “Beginning this season, I had a lot of excitement and hope in taking my next step in the Xfinity Series. Unfortunately, it has not turned out the way that I expected,” she shared. While she didn’t elaborate on specific reasons for the separation, she emphasized that the team’s and her own goals no longer aligned.
On the other hand, AM Racing released a more neutral statement thanking Deegan for her time with the team and wishing her well in her future endeavors. However, the decision raises questions about what ultimately led to the split.
The Harsh Reality of Deegan’s Performance
While Deegan has a dedicated fan base and undeniable talent, her Xfinity Series results have been underwhelming. Before Chicago, she ranked last among full-time Xfinity drivers, with zero top-10 finishes and a series of disappointing results. Even after a crew chief change earlier in the season, there was little sign of improvement.
Comparisons to Brett Moffitt, who drove for AM Racing last season and achieved nine top-10 finishes, make it clear that the No. 15 Ford was capable of better performances. This has led many to wonder whether Deegan was simply struggling to adapt or if she was rushed through the NASCAR ranks too quickly.
Was Deegan’s NASCAR Rise Too Fast?
Unlike many of her peers who honed their skills in stock cars from an early age, Deegan’s background was in off-road racing and dirt bikes. She didn’t start competing in Legends cars and late models until her mid-to-late teens, putting her at a disadvantage against drivers with years of short-track experience.
Her early success in the K&N Pro Series West built a lot of hype, but once she transitioned to ARCA and the Truck Series, the results stalled. Three full-time seasons in the Truck Series saw her points finishes remain stagnant, with only two laps led across all those years. In NASCAR, steady progress is expected, but Deegan’s performance plateaued.
What’s Next for Hailie Deegan?
Despite the disappointing results, Deegan remains determined to find a new opportunity. “The only thing I’m focused on is getting back to being competitive. That is all that matters to me,” she said. However, with no immediate seat lined up, her next steps remain uncertain.
Could she return to the Truck Series? Will she explore other racing disciplines, such as IMSA or SRX? Or will she take time to regroup before attempting a NASCAR comeback?
One thing is clear: Deegan still has a massive following and marketability, which could help her land another opportunity. But whether she can turn that into on-track success remains to be seen.
As the NASCAR season continues, all eyes will be on where Hailie Deegan goes next—and whether she can prove her doubters wrong.
