Former NASCAR Driver Suggests Hailie Deegan Isn’t the Best Fit for SRX

Tony Stewart launched SRX with the aim of “rolling out the red carpet” for NASCAR enthusiasts, bringing together the crème de la crème of NASCAR drivers to burn rubber on short tracks. Now, in its third lap around the sun, SRX has managed to stir the pot quite effectively.

The inclusion of NASCAR heavyweights like Kyle Busch, Brad Keselowski, and Tony Stewart himself has undoubtedly “added fuel to the fire,” ramping up the anticipation. Yet, there are those in the pit lane and grandstands who “can’t quite put their finger on” the real purpose behind the SRX. To them, SRX seems to be “missing a beat,” not truly embodying its grand title of Superstar Racing Experience, as they draw parallels to the iconic IROC.

Purpose of SRX Series isn’t in tandem with Hailie Deegan racing in it, admits former driver 

Though SRX has carved a niche for itself in the racing world, it’s currently under the microscope, with many in the NASCAR fraternity debating its core essence. The SRX was unveiled amid much fanfare, leading many to anticipate a spectacle befitting its lofty title.

The recent tête-à-tête between the seasoned Landon Cassill and the dynamic Parker Kligerman, both racing aficionados, unearthed deeper concerns. Adding another layer to this debate is the integration of the young trailblazer, Hailie Deegan.

Launching into the SRX deliberation, Cassill didn’t mince his words, candidly revealing that he doesn’t get it and doesn’t understand the purpose behind creating SRX. Kligerman sought to unravel the enigma, suggesting that SRX would resonate more, as a Short-track Racing Experience. But given its moniker, Superstar Racing Experience, it’s akin to stirring a hornet’s nest of confusion. He mused, “I thought when it started, it’s IROC 2.0. It’s going to be the International Race of Champions, but they just go to a bunch of short tracks. So it’s not the International Race of Champions.”

Cassill, scrutinizing SRX’s roster, raised eyebrows at some choices, especially Hailie Deegan’s inclusion. He articulated, “It’s not all superstars, right? It’s more celebrity races. They’re good racers; I am not trying to take anything away, but … if you are trying to make IROC 2.0, I don’t know if Hailie Deegan is your driver for that.”

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While Cassill and Kligerman might be dissecting SRX’s ethos and its alignment with its brand, the ultimate jury—the spectators—are the only ones allowed to cast the deciding vote with their engagement.

Casting a spotlight on the SRX Series: The audience’s take

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The SRX Racing Series, born in 2020, has breathed fresh air into amateur racing, offering both seasoned motorsport icons and rising stars a level playing field.

At the helm of the Camping World SRX Racing Series stands Ray Evernham, a name synonymous with NASCAR’s glittering chronicles. Joining him in penning this SRX Series narrative is none other than Tony Stewart, a maestro behind the wheel celebrated for his versatility across racing arenas.

The series’ success is no flash in the pan, as evidenced by the throngs of spectators crowding the stands race after race. Adding a feather to its cap, as per wsls.com, regional honchos recently hailed the SRX series as an anchor for the local economy. As per Jonathan Sweet, Pulaski County Administrator, the SRX race has donned the crown of the grandest professional sports spectacle in the New River Valley. Swarms descended to catch a glimpse of luminaries like Kyle Busch clinching victories. This sheer magnetism alludes to SRX’s burgeoning trajectory in spectator appeal.

Yet Cassill’s lens on the matter delves a bit deeper, questioning SRX’s raison d’être more than Deegan’s mettle. Is SRX destined to evolve as a star-studded racing extravaganza, or does it aspire to reincarnate the allure of the IROC, spotlighting contemporary racing elites? As the sands of time slip by, it remains to be seen whether SRX will carve out its unique legacy and whether racers like Hailie Deegan will become the torchbearers of its evolving saga.

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