Hailie Deegan has confirmed her racing return after her ousting from NASCAR. The 23-year-old driver is set to debut in the single-seater world as part of the Formula Regional Americas series.
Her debut race is scheduled for November 2nd and 3rd at the famed Circuit of the Americas. Racing alongside young talent Brady Golan for the Toney Driver Development team, Deegan commented on the next chapter in her career:
“I’m beyond excited to be making my first open-wheel start at COTA with TDD.
“I have competed in a handful of races at COTA, and I am looking forward to my first open-wheel race start being at a track I’m familiar with. Standing starts will be new for me, but I’m always up for a challenge and the opportunity to continue to learn and drive.”
Hailie Deegan, driver of the #15 VIVA Tequila Seltzer Ford, waits on the grid during practice for the NASCAR Xfinity Series SciAps 200 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on June 21, 2024 in Loudon, New Hampshire. Hailie Deegan confirms racing return after NASCAR exit.
Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images
Deegan’s transition comes after a strong tenure in NASCAR, where she achieved commendable results, including two sixth-place finishes in the Truck Series across three years. This year, her stint in the Xfinity Series with AM Racing saw a best finish of 12th place.
Despite her successes and a significant following in the racing community, Deegan saw her time in the Xfinity Series come to an abrupt end. AM Racing explained at the time, as previously reported by Newsweek Sports:
“AM Racing and Hailie Deegan have decided to part ways, effective immediately,” they announced. “We are grateful for Hailie’s contributions and dedication as the driver of the No. 15 Ford Mustang during her time with the race team. We wish Hailie the best in her future endeavors and look forward to her continued success on and off the track.”
Speculation initially suggested she might head toward IndyCar’s feeder series, Indy Nxt, before she settled on her path with Formula Regional Americas.
Nathan Toney, Toney Driver Development team boss, commented on the signing of Deegan but also on the partnership with Kiwi Motorsport. He explained:
“[It] is going to be no easy task, especially as the 2024 season is set to conclude at COTA. I am thankful for the opportunity to enter TDD, Brady, and Hailie, but it could not have been possible if it wasn’t for the help of some very talented and big-hearted people.
“A huge thank you to Kiwi Motorsport for their guidance and willingness to help a small program like mine jump onto the national scene. They have always been a phone call away and have been open to making sure I have what we need to go racing.”
The motorsports community will be keenly watching how this move pans out for Deegan.
