Natalie Decker Bio
Early Life and Background
Natalie Marie Decker Lemke was born on June 25, 1997, in Eagle River, Wisconsin, United States. Growing up in a family with a rich history in motorsports, Decker was exposed to racing at a young age. Her father, Chuck Decker, was a prominent figure in snowmobile racing, winning the World Championship Derby race in 1987. This familial connection to racing laid the groundwork for her own career in motorsports.
Decker began her racing journey in karting, where she won four championships in just two years. By the age of 12, she transitioned to racing 4-cylinder modified stock cars, showcasing her talent early on. Her formative years in racing were marked by significant achievements, including winning the 2012 Super Stock class championship at Marshfield Motor Speedway.
Path to NASCAR
Decker’s ascent in the racing world continued as she joined the ARCA Midwest Tour, where she earned the Rookie of the Year title in 2013 by finishing third in points. Her success in regional racing caught the attention of the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program, leading to her selection in 2015. This opportunity provided her with valuable mentorship and exposure, setting the stage for her future in the NASCAR ranks.
In 2016, Decker participated in the Alan Kulwicki Driver Development program, further solidifying her commitment to a professional racing career. Her journey through the ranks of ARCA and her participation in various series paved the way for her eventual entry into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and later the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Natalie Decker Career
Early Career (2011–2018)
Decker’s early career was characterized by her participation in local and regional racing events. After her success in karting, she made her ARCA debut in 2017, where she quickly made an impression by finishing eleventh in her first race at Toledo Speedway. In 2018, she signed with Venturini Motorsports for a full ARCA schedule, achieving a best finish of seventh in the standings.
During this period, Decker also made her debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where she faced challenges, including a fiery incident during her first race at Daytona. Despite these setbacks, her determination and resilience shone through as she continued to develop her skills on the track.
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Breakthrough (2019–2020)
In 2020, Decker signed with Niece Motorsports, marking a significant milestone in her career. She achieved a historic fifth-place finish at Daytona, becoming the highest-finishing female driver in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. This achievement not only highlighted her talent but also made her a role model for aspiring female drivers in the sport.
However, her season was marred by health issues, including complications from gallbladder surgery, which sidelined her for several races. Despite these challenges, Decker’s determination to succeed remained evident as she continued to push through adversity.
NASCAR Xfinity Series Era (2021–Present)
Decker made her NASCAR Xfinity Series debut in 2021, driving the No. 23 car for RSS Racing/Reaume Brothers Racing. She participated in multiple races, showcasing her skills and determination to compete at a higher level. In 2022, she attempted to qualify for several races, facing challenges but remaining committed to her goals.
As of 2025, Decker is set to drive part-time for DGM Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, continuing her journey in the sport. Her current team and car number, 92, reflect her ongoing commitment to competing at a high level in NASCAR.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Decker is known for her competitive spirit and adaptability on the track. Her experience across various racing series has honed her skills, allowing her to navigate diverse racing conditions effectively. Her strategic approach to racing, combined with her determination, makes her a formidable competitor in the NASCAR landscape.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Among her notable achievements, Decker is recognized as the highest-finishing female driver in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the 2021 Trans-Am Series SGT Class ProAm Challenge Champion. These milestones underscore her talent and dedication to the sport.
Natalie Decker Career Wins
Decker’s racing career has been marked by several significant achievements, although she has yet to secure a win in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series or NASCAR Xfinity Series. Her success in the Trans-Am Series and her recognition in ARCA highlight her potential as a rising star in motorsports.
Current NASCAR Xfinity Series Highlights
As of 2025, Decker continues to compete part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. While she has not yet secured a win in this series, her determination and competitive spirit remain strong as she strives for success in upcoming races.
Previous ARCA Menards Series Achievements
In the ARCA Menards Series, Decker achieved a best finish of seventh in the standings during her full-time campaign in 2018. Her consistent performances and ability to compete in the top ten demonstrate her capabilities as a driver in this competitive series.
Natalie Decker Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Decker comes from a family deeply rooted in motorsports. Her father, Chuck Decker, was a successful snowmobile racer, and her cousins, Paige and Claire Decker, have also made their mark in NASCAR. This familial connection has provided her with a strong support system and inspiration throughout her racing career.
Personal Life
Natalie Decker is married to fellow NASCAR driver Derek Lemke. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Levi, in February 2025. Decker has openly shared her experiences with rheumatoid arthritis, a condition she has managed since childhood, showcasing her resilience both on and off the track.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a pivotal year for Decker as she continues to compete part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. With her recent experiences and the support of DGM Racing, she aims to build on her previous performances and secure her first win in the series. As the season unfolds, Decker’s determination and competitive spirit will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead and making a significant impact in the races to come.
