NASCAR veteran Ken Schrader has shared his perspective following comments made by Hailie Deegan’s father, Brian Deegan, who recently claimed that NASCAR is “not ready for a successful girl race car driver.” Schrader, a respected voice in the motorsports community, pushed back against this sentiment, emphasizing that talent and performance—not gender—determine success in NASCAR.
Schrader: “Success Is Earned on Performance”
Schrader, known for his decades-long career and wealth of racing knowledge, addressed the comments during a recent interview. While he acknowledged the challenges female drivers face in breaking into the traditionally male-dominated sport, he firmly disagreed with the notion that NASCAR isn’t ready to embrace a successful woman driver.
“NASCAR has proven time and again that it’s willing to embrace talented drivers, regardless of their gender,” Schrader said. “Success in this sport is earned on performance. The drivers who work hard, put up results, and prove their abilities are the ones who succeed.”
Schrader’s comments reflect the growing efforts within NASCAR to provide equal opportunities for all drivers. From Danica Patrick’s historic success in the sport to rising stars like Deegan herself, NASCAR has steadily evolved into a platform where any driver, male or female, can shine.
Acknowledging Deegan’s Potential
While Schrader disagreed with Brian Deegan’s broader critique, he did acknowledge Hailie Deegan’s talent and potential. He noted that breaking barriers in any sport requires consistent results, something he believes Deegan is capable of achieving as she continues to develop her career.
“Hailie’s got the talent, no question,” Schrader remarked. “But consistent results are what will ultimately define her career. NASCAR is an incredibly competitive series, and success doesn’t come easy for anyone.”
Deegan, who currently competes in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, has been seen as one of the sport’s brightest young prospects. While she has shown flashes of brilliance on the track, her results have been mixed, leading some to question when—or if—she will take the next step in her career.
NASCAR’s Progress on Gender Diversity
Schrader’s comments also highlighted NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to diversify the sport. Programs like the Drive for Diversity initiative have helped elevate drivers from a variety of backgrounds, creating opportunities for those historically underrepresented in the sport.
Danica Patrick, who became the first woman to win a NASCAR Cup Series pole at Daytona in 2013, is a prime example of NASCAR’s willingness to embrace female drivers capable of competing at the highest level. More recently, drivers like Toni Breidinger and Amber Balcaen have made strides in lower-tier series, further proving that opportunities exist for women in the sport.
Schrader’s stance underscores the reality of modern NASCAR: success is achievable for anyone who can perform. While challenges remain for women in motorsports, Schrader believes that NASCAR’s evolving platform is ready for the next breakout female star.
As for Hailie Deegan, her journey is far from over. With youth, talent, and a strong fan base on her side, she remains a driver to watch as she continues to climb the ranks.
“NASCAR’s ready,” Schrader concluded. “The question is: Who’s going to step up and make it happen?”
Deegan’s future, much like the future of women in NASCAR, rests on what happens on the track—a place where barriers can be broken and history can be made with every lap.
