Katherine Legge Embraces Challenges in NASCAR, Dismisses Criticism
Katherine Legge is steering her own course in NASCAR, undeterred by critics who comment on her appearance.
At 44, Legge will race the e.l.f. Cosmetics No. 32 Chevy during the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ BetMGM 300 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 24. Her participation marks a significant milestone as she became the first female driver in a NASCAR Cup series event since Danica Patrick's retirement in 2018.
In a male-dominated sport, Legge shared with Us Weekly her determination to break stereotypes. “If you’re a certain way to somebody, that says more about them than it does about you,” she stated, emphasizing her indifference to opinions about her makeup choices. “As you get older, you just kind of accept it and you don’t care anymore. It’s not really my problem if you think I’m wearing too much mascara.”
Transitioning from IndyCar to NASCAR has not been without its challenges. Legge noted that the reception from fellow drivers has varied significantly. “Most of them don’t know me,” she remarked, reflecting on the mixed responses she has received. “It’s been a very mixed bag of who’s reached out, who’s been kind, who’s not been so kind. I think maybe it’s just the insecure ones that are not really nice.”
Addressing the underrepresentation of women in motorsports, Legge pointed out that historical success has been lacking. “I think people are reluctant to see change,” she said. “But if I was out there winning all the time, then maybe people would be like, ‘OK, the girls can do it.’ You have to see it to believe it to a certain extent.”
While she acknowledges her role in paving the way for future female drivers, Legge insists that the pressure of representation is not a constant burden. “I just want to be the best race car driver I can be,” she explained. “I don’t care what the race car driver looks like. The car doesn’t know the difference.”
Legge recognizes her influence on young fans who look up to her. “I want to honor that and I don’t want to play into the fact that I’m female,” she said. “I want to do it the professional, proper way and be seen as a legit race car driver.”
To inspire the next generation, Legge has authored a children’s book titled “Kat’s Magic Helmet.” She expressed her desire for the book to resonate with young readers: “I was really shy as a kid. I got bullied some of the time in racing and there was a whole underlying story I wanted to share to help the young people of tomorrow.”
“Kat’s Magic Helmet” is currently available for purchase. Fans can catch Legge in action during the NASCAR Xfinity Series’ BetMGM 300, airing live on May 24 at 4:30 p.m. ET on The CW.
