Katherine Legge has never been one to follow the expected path. With nearly 25 years of professional racing behind her, she’s carved out a reputation as one of motorsport’s most resilient and versatile drivers. In 2025, she’s not only competing at the highest level of stock car racing but also making history in the process—becoming the first woman to compete in the NASCAR Cup Series since Danica Patrick in 2018.
What sets Legge apart, however, isn’t just her presence on the track—it’s the way she’s rewriting what it means to be a woman in racing. Through her groundbreaking partnership with e.l.f. Cosmetics, she’s proving that speed, strength, and self-expression can thrive together. The collaboration marks a milestone for motorsport as e.l.f. became the first beauty brand in NASCAR’s 115-year history to sponsor a driver.
For Legge, who spends long days behind the wheel under grueling conditions, beauty products aren’t just about appearance—they’re a part of her routine. “Racing is hot, sweaty, and demanding, but people still expect you to step out of the car looking sharp,” she explains. With waterproof mascara, sweat-proof primer, and her go-to lip oil, Legge balances grit with glamour, showing that femininity doesn’t need to be sacrificed to succeed in a male-dominated arena.
This year hasn’t been without challenges. After leasing complications left her without a car for the 2024 Indy 500, Legge pivoted to NASCAR—a bold transition that came with new technical demands and steep competition. A crash at Talladega early in the season brought not only physical setbacks but also a flood of misogynistic messages and even threats. Yet, her response has been one of resilience. “Everything happens for a reason,” she says. “NASCAR has given me a new challenge and a renewed energy for racing, and I’m proud to represent e.l.f. every time I get behind the wheel.”
Beyond racing, Legge leans heavily on discipline and self-care to stay sharp. She follows a rigorous training routine, balances her diet, and makes space for wellness rituals—from cold plunges and hot tub recovery sessions to skincare essentials like retinol and hydrating creams. “The little things add up,” she says, noting that sticking to these habits keeps her grounded amid the chaos of racing life.
As she eyes the future, Legge hopes to merge her racing worlds—continuing her NASCAR journey while returning to the Indy 500. But no matter where she competes, her legacy is already clear: she’s breaking barriers, reshaping expectations, and doing it all on her own terms—helmet, horsepower, and highlighter included.
