The NASCAR world has been buzzing with excitement ever since Tony Stewart made a decisive move after Haley Deegan’s unexpected departure from AM Racing. Seizing the opportunity, Stewart saw Deegan’s potential beyond her racing skills—her massive fan base and social media influence made her an attractive addition to his plans. But how will this impact her career and the sport as a whole?

Deegan’s Rise Through NASCAR

Haley Deegan’s journey to the NASCAR Xfinity Series has been anything but conventional. While she has undeniable talent, many believe her entry into the sport was significantly influenced by her strong social media presence. Her online following has helped secure sponsorships and visibility, a factor that Tony Stewart himself acknowledged.

Deegan’s transition from the Truck Series to Xfinity has been met with challenges. Her time in the Truck Series was less than stellar, with inconsistent performances and limited podium finishes. Despite this, AM Racing signed her for a multi-year deal to drive the No. 15 Mustang, highlighting how important marketing and branding have become in modern NASCAR.

The Role of Social Media and Support System

A crucial part of Deegan’s success has been her fiancé, Chase Cabry, who played a significant role in securing her Xfinity ride. According to Deegan, AM Racing initially reached out to Cabry, unaware of how to directly contact her. Their discussions led to multiple meetings and eventually the contract that put her in the Xfinity Series full-time.

Her ability to attract sponsors through her massive Instagram following (1.6 million) showcases the evolving nature of NASCAR. While driving skill remains essential, having a strong social media presence has become a key factor in securing opportunities.

Tony Stewart’s Take on Deegan and Young Drivers

Tony Stewart has always been vocal about his views on NASCAR’s younger generation. He has emphasized that talent should be the primary factor in a driver’s rise through the ranks, not just financial backing or social media presence. Stewart has criticized the trend of younger drivers jumping into high-level competition too soon, believing they need more time to mature both mentally and physically.

Stewart’s frustration with Deegan was evident after a controversial incident in Nashville where she caused a multi-car collision. He has stressed that drivers must develop race strategy and composure rather than relying solely on aggressive driving styles.

Deegan’s Struggles and Future Prospects

Deegan’s time in the Truck Series with ThorSport Racing did not meet expectations. While her teammates consistently finished in the top 10, she struggled with performance, often finishing 20th or worse. These struggles have raised questions about whether she can truly compete at a high level in NASCAR.

However, her Xfinity debut in Las Vegas showed promise. Driving for SS Green Light Racing, she finished 13th, proving that in the right environment, she can deliver solid results. This performance suggests she may find more success in Xfinity than she did in Trucks.

What’s Next for Haley Deegan?

With Stewart’s backing and a fresh start in Xfinity, Deegan’s career is entering a critical phase. She has the opportunity to prove that she belongs in NASCAR based on performance rather than social media influence. However, the competition is fierce, and she must show consistent improvement to silence her critics.

Will Deegan rise to the occasion, or will her struggles continue? One thing is certain—her journey in NASCAR remains one of the most intriguing stories in the sport today.