Ryan Vargas spoke out when few did, standing by Katherine Legge during a storm of online anger. What followed was not expected. His support led to threats that crossed all lines. Behind one post was a bigger story—one of danger, defense, and determination. At the same time, Katherine Legge faced harsh words after a tough race weekend. But both racers made one thing clear: the fight, both on and off the track, is far from over.
Key Highlights
- Ryan Vargas defended Katherine Legge amid online criticism following her Cup Series debut.
- Vargas received threats, including a menacing email, after supporting Legge publicly.
- He condemned harassment faced by both himself and Legge, emphasizing support shouldn’t lead to targeting.
- Legge addressed the online backlash on her podcast, denouncing inappropriate social media comments.
- Vargas’s defense highlights the ongoing issue of harassment in motorsports.
A Rough Cup Series Debut and Xfinity Return
Katherine Legge’s expedition in the NASCAR Xfinity Series has been marked by remarkable challenges, particularly highlighted by her Cup Series debut at Phoenix Raceway. This notable moment witnessed Legge as the initial woman to start a Cup Series race since Danica Patrick, symbolizing a crucial step for women in motorsports.
However, her debut presented considerable obstacles. Legge experienced two spins during the race, one unprovoked and another involving fellow competitor Daniel Suarez. Furthermore, she mistakenly entered pit road when it was closed, resulting in a penalty and culminating in a 30th-place finish. These events, coupled with the ensuing social media backlash, emphasized the difficulties she faced.
Yet, Legge’s resolve remained firm as she sought redemption with her return to the Xfinity Series. Despite the challenges at Rockingham, she planned to utilize her extensive experience across IndyCar, IMSA, and Formula E to navigate the demanding NASCAR landscape.
“I know Phoenix wasn’t my best work. But I haven’t been around in motorsports for 20 years professionally by giving up on anything.” – (Legge)
The Rockingham Incident and Backlash
Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by Katherine Legge in her NASCAR venture, the Rockingham incident further complicated her situation. Initially, Legge qualified on speed, but due to ownership points, officials placed her off the grid before she eventually started in J.J. Yeley’s No. 53 car for Joey Gase Motorsports.
On race day, her troubles escalated when William Sawalich collided with her entering Turn 1. This led to a spin into Kasey Kahne’s car, culminating in a crash that sparked online vitriol, unfairly directed at Legge.
Ryan Vargas’ Defense and Online Firestorm
Ryan Vargas intervened in support of Katherine Legge amidst the escalating online drama. His decision to share a post on X featuring a picture of Legge and her IndyCar record, accompanied by the word “unproven,” was initially intended to highlight her achievements.
However, it quickly spiraled into a misunderstanding, leading to Vargas receiving threats. To clarify his stance, Vargas publicly stated, “I am defending Katherine here. Please do not threaten or harass me,” sharing a screenshot of a menacing email. This email not only mocked Vargas but also contained a derogatory remark about his daughter.
“Maybe your daughter should just let her men in her life drive so she can just sit there like a good little girl.” – (email)
Despite the backlash, Vargas remained steadfast, emphasizing that supporting someone should not result in becoming a target. His extensive experience across multiple NASCAR-sanctioned series, including the Xfinity Series and NASCAR Canada Series, accentuates his resilience in high-pressure situations. While Vargas faced online threats, Legge contended with even graver issues, such as hate mail.
Legge’s Message and Determination to Continue
On her podcast, Throttle Therapy, Legge addressed the online harassment she has faced, condemning the inappropriate social media comments as both disturbing and unacceptable.
“The inappropriate social media comments I’ve received aren’t just disturbing, they are unacceptable… I won’t tolerate any of these threats to my safety or to my dignity.” – (Legge)
Despite her rocky Cup debut in NASCAR, Legge emphasized her extensive background in racing, which includes four Indianapolis 500 starts and experience in IMSA and Formula E.
This needs to be stated, I am defending Kathrine here.
Please do not threaten or harass me. There is a handful of you thinking I’m doing the opposite here, I am poking fun at that person who called her “unproven”, not calling her that. This is getting ridiculous.
Thank you. https://t.co/bwlGbSQvQw pic.twitter.com/2nHS83RIg3
— Ryan Vargas (@RyanVargas_23) April 23, 2025
Her resolve to continue is evident as she plans to run a mix of Cup and Xfinity races in 2025. Supported by Jordan Anderson Racing, Live Fast Motorsports, and sponsors like e.l.f. Cosmetics, Legge remains undeterred.
“I have earned my seat on that race track. I’ve worked just as hard as any of the other drivers out there.” – (Legge)
| Race Series | Years Active |
|---|---|
| Indianapolis 500 | 4 starts |
| NASCAR Xfinity | 2018, 2023 |
| ARCA | 2023 debut |
| IMSA | Competed |
| Formula E | Competed |
News in Brief: Ryan Vargas Defends Katherine Legge
Ryan Vargas faced considerable backlash online after defending Katherine Legge following a controversial incident at Rockingham. Despite receiving threats, Vargas remained steadfast in his support, highlighting the intense emotions that can arise in NASCAR.
Legge, undeterred by the criticism, expressed her commitment to racing, emphasizing her resolve to continue her career. This incident accentuates the challenges athletes face in balancing competition with public perception, in addition to the intense scrutiny present in professional sports.
ALSO READ: Katherine Legge Cites FIA Actions After Being Targeted with Harassment Following NASCAR Races
