Katherine Legge is set to make history this weekend by becoming the first woman to compete in a NASCAR Cup Series race since 2018. The 44-year-old British driver will pilot the No. 78 Chevrolet for Live Fast Motorsports at the Shriners Children’s 500, held at Phoenix Raceway.
Legge’s entry marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the first female driver in the Cup Series since Danica Patrick’s final appearance at the 2018 Daytona 500. This achievement also positions Legge as only the 17th woman to compete at NASCAR’s highest level.
With a diverse and extensive motorsports background, Legge brings a wealth of experience to the track. She has participated in five NASCAR Xfinity Series races, most recently at Road America in 2023. In 2024, she competed in a partial IndyCar Series schedule and has made four starts in the Indianapolis 500, notably setting the fastest qualifying time by a woman in 2023.
Legge’s career also includes stints in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) series and the IMSA SportsCar Championship, where she drove the innovative DeltaWing prototype and later an Acura NSX GT3 for Michael Shank Racing. Her versatility across various racing disciplines underscores her adaptability and skill.
Live Fast Motorsports co-owner B.J. McLeod, who typically drives the No. 78 Chevrolet, expressed enthusiasm about Legge’s addition to the team for this event. The collaboration came together swiftly, reflecting both parties’ eagerness to seize this unique opportunity.
As the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Phoenix Raceway, all eyes will be on Legge as she breaks a seven-year absence of female competitors in the series. Her participation not only adds a fresh narrative to the season but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring female racers aiming to make their mark in motorsports.
