Hailie Deegan Shifts Gears from Stock Cars to Open-Wheel Dreams with INDY NXT.
If you’ve followed Hailie Deegan’s career even loosely, you know she’s never been one to back down from a challenge. From dirt tracks in California to the national spotlight in NASCAR, she’s carved a lane all her own—and now, she’s steering straight into a bold new chapter: open-wheel racing.
Hailie Deegan, 23, recently strapped into an INDY NXT car for her first official oval test, marking a huge milestone in her transition to the world of open-wheel competition. Partnered with HMD Motorsports and backed by longtime sponsor Monster Energy, she’s turning heads not just for the move, but for how she’s handling it.
Who Is Hailie Deegan?
Born into a racing family—her father is freestyle motocross legend Brian Deegan—Hailie grew up immersed in speed, adrenaline, and a deep competitive drive. But she’s never ridden her dad’s coattails. Instead, she’s built her own name with grit and charisma, and she’s been blazing trails from the start.
Brian Deegan with Hailie (@briandeegan38 Instagram)
She made headlines early by becoming the first woman to win a race in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West (now ARCA Menards Series West). She followed it up with multiple wins and podium finishes, becoming one of the most recognizable—and marketable—young drivers in the sport.
Her jump into NASCAR’s national series saw her competing full-time in the Truck Series, where she held her own against seasoned pros, showing consistency, growth, and flashes of that aggressive flair fans love her for.
A Whole New World: INDY NXT
Now? She’s stepping into uncharted territory. INDY NXT (formerly Indy Lights) isn’t just a different series—it’s a different discipline. The cars are lighter, faster, and wildly different to handle. Power steering? Nope. Open cockpit? Yep. It’s racing stripped down to precision and raw skill.
Deegan recently tested on the oval at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a place soaked in racing history and high expectations. The test wasn't just symbolic—it was a full-speed, high-stakes rehearsal for a whole new kind of racing life.
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And it wasn’t easy. She’s been open about how demanding the switch has been, especially physically. Without the aid of power steering, she’s had to ramp up her upper-body training, working closely with her team to adapt her driving style and body to the demands of the new car.
That transparency is part of what makes her such a compelling figure in motorsports. She doesn’t sugarcoat the grind—but she embraces it.
Monster Energy Rides Along
Through every chapter of her journey, Monster Energy has remained firmly in her corner. The bold green-and-black livery is more than a sponsorship—it's a signature.
Hailie Deegan (@hailiedeegan Instagram)
The brand has stuck with her through stock cars, dirt bikes, trucks, and now open-wheel machines. It’s a partnership that speaks to her versatility and crossover appeal.
What’s Next?
With the INDY NXT season just getting rolling, all eyes are on how Deegan will adapt and compete in one of racing’s toughest proving grounds.
While some may have doubted her move, those who’ve followed her long enough know better than to bet against her.
She’s got the fire. She’s got the fans. And now, she’s got a fresh track ahead—with a whole new set of turns.
Whether you're watching from the grandstands or catching highlights online, Hailie Deegan’s journey is far from over. If anything, it’s just getting interesting again.
