Hailie Deegan Debuts in Indy NXT Series

Hailie Deegan is set to make her debut in the Indy NXT Series, driving for HMD Motorsports starting March 2, 2025. This season, she joins a cohort of five rookie drivers, including another female driver, all eager to carve their niche in open-wheel racing. Deegan's transition comes after a mixed performance in the NASCAR Truck and Xfinity Series, prompting her to refine her skills during the off-season with extensive testing, particularly drawing from her experiences in the Formula Regional Americas. The racing community is abuzz with support, eager to see her in action and hopeful for her success in the new environment.

This marks a significant pivot for Deegan, as it is the first year since 2018 that she will not be involved in stock car racing. Her passion for road course racing has fueled her excitement for this new venture, despite acknowledging the inherent challenges of jumping into a different racing discipline. Financial struggles in securing sponsorships for her NASCAR ventures have guided her decision towards pursuing opportunities in IndyCar. In 2025, she will be partnered with teammate Sophia Floersch, who brings a wealth of experience from endurance racing and Formula 3, as they focus on driver development in a competitive landscape.