As the NASCAR calendar races towards the climactic unveiling of the championship 4 contenders, the shenanigans off the main stage are far from quiet With the 2024 season on the horizon, it’s time for teams and drivers to steal the spotlight, and it wouldn’t be NASCAR without a little drama. Among the theatrics, we find none other than Hailie Deegan’s arch-nemesis, Dean Thompson, in a classic display of overblown bravado. Dean raised the crowd’s anticipation, only to deliver a performance that left fans utterly underwhelmed.

The rivalry between Hailie and Dean has become legendary, lighting up headlines from North Wilkesboro to Richmond and most recently Kansas. The No. 13 and No. 5 trucks have more than just touched bumpers; they’ve exchanged fiery words and intense on-track clashes that have fans on the edge of their seats.

Hailie Deegan’s rival delivers much hype, a little bang, and a surprising 2024 deal

In a buildup that had fans expecting a tsunami but delivered nothing more than a ripple, Dean Thompson took to cryptic tweets and social media changes, creating what could be dubbed the “social media what not to do” handbook. Speculation was rife as Thompson’s online antics suggested a massive team change or a leap to the upper echelons of NASCAR. However, when the curtain was finally lifted, it turned out to be quite the anticlimax.

Thompson and Tricon Garage, his team for the 2023 season, have extended their partnership into the 2024 season, with Dean once again donning the No. 5 Truck. The 22-year-old, in his second Truck Series season and first with Tricon Garage, currently sits 20th in the overall Truck Series standings, just 23 points behind his nemesis Deegan. With four Top 10 finishes to his name, he’s determined to make 2024 a better season alongside points leader Corey Heim.

Thompson shared, “We’ve got some unfinished business. Obviously, this year has been a challenge, but by returning next season, I can hone my skills and be better prepared. It’s going to be awesome – a great opportunity.” While he said he was “pumped,” many fans weren’t feeling the same excitement.

Here’s a look at some of the over-the-top predictions fans made that ultimately fell flat.

WATCH THIS STORY: Denny Hamlin Warns Bubba Wallace To Watch Out Amid Creeping Playoff Desperation

Dean Thompson’s anticipated announcement sparks over-the-top speculations

Trending

Joe Gibbs Racing Warn Rick Hendrick Camp Against Underestimating Desperate Underdogs

April 30, 2024 10:48 PM EDT

“That’s What Dale Earnhardt Did”—NASCAR Veteran Dissects Rick Hendrick’s Call to Commit Financially Behind HMS Star

May 01, 2024 04:48 AM EDT

Kevin Harvick Rejects Kyle Larson’s Ineffective Solution, Condemning Over-Hyped NASCAR Controversy

May 01, 2024 06:07 PM EDT

Next-Gen Stats Sell Out Richard Childress’ Disgruntled Grandson as Riled Up Fans Beg to Preserve Dale Earnhardt’s Legacy

April 30, 2024 07:55 AM EDT

“I’m Frustrated”- Despite $400 Million Net Worth Tag, Dale Earnhardt Jr Reveals His Only “Cheaper” NASCAR Miss

May 01, 2024 10:32 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NASCAR stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Amidst the frenzy of Dean Thompson’s social media shenanigans, fans were quick to spin wild speculations. One optimistically deciphered his cryptic message, saying, “His bio translates to ‘Tomorrow at twelve,’ so I guess he’s announcing something tomorrow at 12.” In the end, it wasn’t quite the groundbreaking reveal they expected.

Some took humor to a whole new level, with one fan quipping, “Can’t wait for him to announce he and Hailie are teammates next season, lmao.” Another noticed fellow competitor Jesse Love’s tweets, drawing lines, “Also, Jesse Love tweeted out the pen emojis earlier today, so this could be related.”

Some with high hopes suggested, “See u at Kaulig,” “Xfinity maybe?” However, Thompson’s destination remained Truck series-focused. On the same note expecting a big financial leap, one fan predicted, “Dean Thompson to the Kaulig 16, or probably a notable truck/Xfinity team because money.” In the end, it was a different kind of move.

Some also speculated, “Could be going to Xfinity maybe?” and  “Announce the Hendrick contract.” However, it was just business as usual with Tricon Garage. Meanwhile, some did hit the nail on the head with “Thompson to the #5 confirmed.”

With Deegan moving to the upper ranks to Xfinity next season with AM Racing, what do you think will be the outcome of the next season for the California native duo?

Hailie Deegan Dealt With Another Blow Amid Slipping Xfinity Dreams