In a pivotal turn for her racing journey, Hailie Deegan’s NASCAR aspirations have been revived through a major sponsorship, echoing the enduring support Chase Elliott receives from NAPA. With the Chase Elliott NAPA sponsorship now backing Deegan, her return to the ARCA Menards Series West marks a renewed push to reclaim momentum in stock car racing.
Deegan’s Road Back to NASCAR Gains New Life Through NAPA
After an unsuccessful stint attempting to transition to IndyCar, Hailie Deegan, aged 24 and recognized across California and beyond, found the road back to NASCAR uncertain. However, an opportunity materialized thanks to long-time NASCAR backer National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA) through the guidance of Bill McAnally, reminiscent of the legendary support seen in Chase Elliott’s own career.
Deegan shared candidly on her YouTube channel that her partnership with NAPA and Bill McAnally was unexpected yet transformative. The proposal not only offered her the prospect of racing again in the ARCA West Series but also included the possibility of additional truck races, effectively providing a complete schedule simply by leveraging the prestige and commitment of the NAPA brand.
“He’s like, ‘I have NAPA who really wants to be back on the West Coast, a part of the Arca West series.’ And they would want to be on your car, which obviously they would be contributing to my racing and that racing budget. And I was like, ‘Man, I didn’t really ever think about that or think it was a possibility.’”
— Hailie Deegan, Driver
“And so when he approached me with that and then he even said he could do a few truck races on top of it to throw it in and kind of make it a full schedule deal on top of the West Series,”
— Hailie Deegan, Driver
This deep investment from NAPA, once instrumental in launching Chase Elliott’s professional climb, is now poised to do the same for Deegan. NAPA first joined Elliott in 2014, sponsoring his Xfinity Series campaign, which propelled him to a championship and cemented a bond that endures in the Cup Series. For Deegan, the similar backing not only provides financial stability but sends a strong message about her credibility and value in the sport.
Returning with Bill McAnally Racing and with NAPA Auto Care as a primary partner on her No.16 Chevrolet entry, Deegan is now set to pursue a full season and aim for wins in an environment that recognizes and nurtures emerging racing talent.
NAPA’s Enduring Impact on Racing Development
NAPA’s history in NASCAR transcends what is visible on the racecar. Beyond its famed association with Chase Elliott, the brand’s philosophy centers on developing young drivers and investing in the growth of motorsports. Over the years, this approach has helped not just sustain but also launch the careers of many promising figures in racing, making sponsorship a matter of long-term vision over mere branding.
The company’s return to support Deegan comes alongside efforts in outreach and educational programs, highlighting its belief in shaping futures both on and off the track. For Deegan, this means more than just an accelerated return to competition; it’s a chance to link her name to an industry leader that actively builds the next generation of motorsport professionals.
Deegan’s Path: From Trailblazer to Comeback Story
Hailie Deegan’s reputation in racing is well-established. She broke new ground by winning three races in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, distinguishing herself as the first female competitor to do so. These early triumphs opened doors to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and eventually the Xfinity Series, though her progress was met with typical ups and downs of a rising athlete.
Despite some hurdles, Deegan has maintained her status as a competitive presence on track, collecting multiple top-10 finishes and continually refining her skills. Now, with the support of Bill McAnally—a familiar face from the beginnings of her career—she has an ideal platform to recapture the momentum that first set her apart.
Bill McAnally Discusses Deegan’s Return to His Team
The significance of Deegan’s comeback to the ARCA Menards Series West and Bill McAnally Racing cannot be overstated. Team owner Bill McAnally himself spoke with enthusiasm about rekindling their successful partnership and what it could mean for their collective ambitions heading toward 2026.
“Having Hailie back on our team is incredibly special. We enjoyed working together several years ago and won some races,”
— Bill McAnally, Team Owner
“I see the commitment she has for competing at this level, and we want to be part of her success. She has the knowledge of winning out West, and we have a great chance to chase our 12 title with her and Mason Massey in the fold.”
— Bill McAnally, Team Owner
With Deegan alongside teammate Mason Massey, McAnally Racing aims to make a strong run at the series championship, seeing in Deegan both a symbol of progress and a serious competitor. Their renewed alliance is a demonstration of both parties’ desire to return to victory lane and reclaim a prominent place within the sport.
A New Era for Diversity and Opportunity in NASCAR
Deegan’s resurgence in NASCAR is about more than just personal or team glory. Her visibility as a leading female driver brings attention to the evolving landscape in a sport historically dominated by men. By returning to where her career flourished and gaining the support of partners like NAPA and McAnally, she serves as an important role model—showing what can be achieved through talent, resilience, and strategic backing.
The knock-on effect of her journey could be felt in the inspiration it provides for women aiming to enter high-level racing, potentially expanding the diversity, excitement, and future opportunities within NASCAR and beyond.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Racing Season
With the 2026 racing calendar approaching, optimism surrounds Deegan’s comeback with Bill McAnally Racing, powered by NAPA’s steadfast involvement. As she prepares to battle for wins and possibly a championship, her partnership—mirroring the success story of Chase Elliott NAPA sponsorship—sets expectations high. For Deegan, NAPA, and the NASCAR community, the collaboration signals a future where history and progress are on course to converge once more on the track.
