Hailie Deegan Officially Returns: Driving the No. 15 Ford Mustang for AM Racing in the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series
Hailie Deegan is officially making her return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2025, this time behind the wheel of the No. 15 Ford Mustang for AM Racing. After a challenging rookie season in 2024, where expectations were high but results fell short, Deegan is getting another opportunity to establish herself in the series. With the full support of AM Racing, she aims to prove that she is more than just a rising star with a strong fanbase—she is a competitor ready to make an impact on the track.
Deegan’s 2024 campaign was met with considerable media attention, given her impressive background in off-road and stock car racing, as well as her growing popularity. However, her transition to the Xfinity Series was far from smooth. Despite moments of promise, she struggled to consistently finish near the front, leading to mixed reactions from both fans and analysts. Some argued that her debut season was a learning experience, while others questioned whether she was ready for NASCAR’s second-tier series. Regardless, her return in 2025 signals that AM Racing still believes in her potential and is willing to invest in her growth.
AM Racing has been vocal about its commitment to Deegan, emphasizing that the upcoming season is about development and progress. The team is working closely with her to refine her skills, improve racecraft, and build confidence on different tracks. NASCAR is a sport where experience plays a crucial role, and Deegan now has a full season under her belt to apply what she has learned. With better preparation, more seat time, and an improved approach, she hopes to turn last year’s struggles into stronger performances in 2025.
One of the biggest challenges for Deegan will be proving herself against an increasingly competitive Xfinity field. The series has long been a proving ground for drivers aiming for the NASCAR Cup Series, with rising talents and veteran racers all fighting for victories. Deegan will need to show tangible progress, demonstrating not only her ability to compete but also her potential to secure top-10 finishes and, eventually, contend for wins. If she can break through and deliver solid results, it could silence many of her critics and solidify her place as a serious contender.
Fan reactions to her return have been mixed. While many continue to support her and see her as an inspiration for aspiring female drivers, others remain skeptical, questioning whether her opportunities are driven more by marketability than pure performance. However, Deegan has never shied away from challenges, and 2025 presents another chance to prove that she belongs in the NASCAR spotlight.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Deegan and her No. 15 Ford Mustang. Will she rise to the occasion and show meaningful improvement, or will the challenges of the Xfinity Series continue to be an uphill battle? One thing is certain—her journey in NASCAR is far from over, and the 2025 season will be a critical chapter in her racing career. Whether she thrives or struggles, her return guarantees excitement, anticipation, and plenty of discussions among fans and analysts alike.
