Rumors are circulating that Hailie Deegan may make a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series comeback in 2026, reigniting discussions about her career trajectory. The 24-year-old, daughter of motocross legend Brian Deegan, has been a notable figure in NASCAR’s development ranks and her possible return has captivated fans and insiders alike.
Deegan’s ascent began with three wins in the ARCA Menards Series West during 2018 and 2019, followed by a full-time run in the ARCA national series by 2020. She competed against strong contenders such as Sam Mayer and Chandler Smith before stepping into the Truck Series with DGR-Crosley and later ThorSport Racing. However, her time in the Trucks failed to meet early expectations, leading to a move to the Xfinity Series in 2024 with AM Racing, a tenure that ended after 17 races amid underwhelming results.
Career Challenges and Transition to Open-Wheel Racing
After her NASCAR opportunities dwindled, Deegan shifted focus to open-wheel racing in 2025 by entering the Indy NXT series. Her rookie season proved difficult, with no finishes better than 11th place and a final points standing of 14th, underscoring the challenges of transitioning from stock cars to complex formula vehicles. These struggles have fueled speculation about a return to the Truck Series, with rumors suggesting interest from ThorSport Racing, Niece Motorsports, and Kaulig Racing’s emerging Ram-backed Truck program.
ThorSport, currently undergoing a roster shift with Matt Crafton’s departure and Ty Majeski taking the No. 88 truck in 2026, presents a logical opportunity for Deegan to reclaim a seat in the No. 98 truck. Although her previous stint with ThorSport was modest, a renewed relationship may offer a chance for improved performance. Niece Motorsports also has potential openings after lineup changes that included parting ways with Kaden Honeycutt and replacing Christian Rose with Andrés Pérez de Lara in 2025.
Meanwhile, Kaulig Racing’s new five-truck operation backed by Ram aims to make a significant impact in 2026. Deegan’s established sponsor connections with Monster Energy and Craftsman could make her a valuable asset for Kaulig as they seek to integrate a female driver with market appeal, particularly after prospects Toni Breidinger and Isabella Robusto declined to join the team.
Diverse Fan Reactions on Social Media Platforms
Fans have expressed a wide range of opinions regarding the possibility of Deegan’s return to the Truck Series, with discussions on forums such as Reddit revealing both skepticism and cautious optimism. Some fans question the wisdom of her rapid moves across different racing disciplines, while others sympathize with her decision to prioritize seat time and exposure.
“You mean it was a bad idea to go from being slow in familiar cars to skipping up past 80% of the Indy progression ladder to try some formula car action?” —Reddit User
This pointed criticism highlights concerns that Deegan bypassed key development stages in open-wheel racing, limiting her preparedness for Indy NXT’s challenges. Statistically, her Truck Series average finish of 22.9 over 69 starts and a single top-10 finish further illustrate the uneven nature of her career progression.
On the other hand, more pragmatic voices recognize the advantages of competing in the Truck Series, where larger fields—often with 36 trucks—and televised races on FS1 provide better visibility. A user noted,
“I don’t blame her. I think I’d also rather ride around in 25th in Trucks than second to last in Indy NXT.”
This perspective points out the greater sponsorship exposure and career advancement opportunities available within NASCAR’s national series compared to smaller open-wheel grids.
Suggestions for Development Before a National Series Return
Some fans recommend that Deegan might benefit from gaining additional experience in developmental series before attempting another national-level campaign. One reader wrote,
“Figured this was going to happen, considering that Hailie Deegan has been uncompetitive in Indy NXT. However, think she’s better off going to ARCA or CARS Tour before making a national series return.”
The ARCA Menards Series has historically served as a vital proving ground for drivers like Ty Gibbs and Corey Heim, who demonstrated dominance before ascending to higher NASCAR tiers. Similarly, the CARS Tour offers short-track race experience that could help Deegan hone her racecraft and build confidence.
Brand Affiliations and Potential Manufacturer Alignments
Deegan’s previous affiliations with Ford have proven crucial in her early career, but her current status with the manufacturer appears uncertain following her Indy NXT challenges. Fans speculate that she could attract interest from manufacturers such as Toyota or Ram, especially given their focus on brand marketability and diversity in NASCAR.
“Is her Ford deal done with? Would be a solid move for either Toyota or Ram from a brand perspective. She’s clearly the best female driver in NASCAR in the last few years, and we know brands care about that. It was definitely a mistake for her to move to open wheel racing, so would be interesting to see her come back and start back at the bottom with a bit more drive and maturity.” —Reddit User
With Deegan positioned as one of NASCAR’s leading female talents since Danica Patrick’s exit in 2018, her sponsorship ties to Monster Energy and Craftsman remain valuable assets. Kaulig Racing’s 2026 Ram Truck Series program, aiming to promote a female driver, could provide a competitive platform if she can demonstrate growth and improved results.
Kaulig Racing’s Search for a Female Driver
Kaulig Racing’s expanding Truck Series effort is actively seeking a female driver, especially after Toyota-aligned prospects Toni Breidinger and Isabella Robusto chose to pursue other opportunities. A fan remarked,
“It’s Kaulig trucks. They wanted Toni but she said no, Rubusto but she said no. They want a female driver in a truck. Hailie has sponsorship.”
Deegan’s marketability and sponsor backing make her a logical candidate for this role, but success will depend on her ability to outpace past performances. The stark division among fans reflects uncertainty about whether her resurgence would represent a redemption story or a repeat of previous struggles. Regardless, her next career move is keenly observed by fans and industry watchers alike.
