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AM Racing has confirmed it's replacement for Hailie Deegan for the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series race in Pocono. Stewart-Haas Racing driver Josh Berry will pilot the No. 15 Ford after Deegan's departure from the team.
Three seasons after moving to NASCAR Truck Series full-time, up-and-coming star Hailie Deegan secured a promotion to the Xfinity Series. Touted as the next big female racing prospect, the 23-year-old signed a multi-year deal with AM Racing at the end of 2023.
However, Deegan's stint with AM Racing has come to a premature and erratic end. The 23-year-old driver, after delivering underwhelming performances throughout the campaign, found herself ousted from the team ahead of the NASCAR weekend in Chicago.
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Last week, AM Racing hinted at a shakeup aimed at enhancing the team’s competitiveness, with input from Team Penske veteran Joey Logano. Logano, a two-time Cup Series champion, stepped in and delivered the team’s best performance of the season, finishing eighth at Chicago. This marked Logano's return to the Xfinity Series, where he boasts a record 30 career victories. He last raced in the series in 2019.
In the wake of these changes, Deegan removed all references to AM Racing from her social media accounts, signaling her departure. Now, it has been confirmed that Stewart-Haas Racing's Josh Berry will collaborate with AM Racing in Pocono. Berry will take the reins of the No. 15 Ford in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Explore the Pocono Mountains race at Pocono Raceway.
Berry himself has been making major strides in his career lately. The 33-year-old Cup rookie, who signed a multi-year deal with SHR at the end of 2023, has confirmed his move to Wood Brothers Racing in 2025.
What did Hailie Deegan say following her release from AM Racing?
In response to her release from AM Racing, Hailie Deegan issued an official statement expressing her disappointment and future aspirations. She wrote,
"Beginning this season, I had a lot of excitement and hope in taking my next step in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. It's something I've been working towards for years and always dreamt about... Unfortunately, it has not turned out the way that I expected."
Deegan acknowledged the complexities within a race team that can influence success or failure.
"There are always several reasons within a race team as to why things do or do not work, but sadly our goals no longer align. With that being said, myself and AM Racing will be parting ways," she stated.
Determined to return to the track, Hailie Deegan is actively seeking new opportunities.
"I'm working as quick as possible to find the best opportunities to get back to the track. I'm thankful for the following that I have and everyone who supports me. It's truly only me that knows the whole story and what I need to succeed. See you at the track, soon," she concluded.
