Katherine Legge’s NASCAR Cup Debut: A Rocky Start at Phoenix

Katherine Legge, a veteran racer with experience in IndyCar and IMSA, made her highly anticipated NASCAR Cup Series debut at Phoenix Raceway’s Shriners Children 500, becoming the first woman to compete in the series since Danica Patrick in 2018. Driving the No. 78 Chevrolet for Live Fast Motorsports, she started 37th.

However, Legge’s debut wasn’t without its challenges. On Lap 4, she spun coming out of Turn 2, causing the race’s first caution. Legge immediately took responsibility, telling her team over the radio that her car was “so tight” and difficult to handle. “Tight” in racing terms means the car is struggling to turn.

Adding to the initial difficulties, a communication error during the caution led to Legge pitting when the pits were closed, resulting in a penalty that sent her to the back of the field. Despite the setbacks, her team remained supportive, encouraging her to stay focused and learn from each lap.

As of the end of Stage 1, Legge was two laps down, while Ryan Preece made significant progress, moving from 33rd to third. For Legge, the race is proving to be a test of patience and adaptation as she looks to gain experience and improve as the race continues.