Connecticut-born NASCAR Driver Ryan Preece And His Wife Heather DesRochers Were Racing Rivals Before They Started Dating

Heather and Ryan Raising Daughter Together

December 4, 2026

This article was last updated by Pranaya Poudel on December 4, 2026

Ryan Preece, an American professional stock car racing driver, has been married to his wife, Heather DesRochers, since 2017.

Ryan Preece, born on December 12, 1990, in Berlin, Connecticut, started his racing journey in 2007 by competing in the Northeastern Midget Association, where he finished 32nd in the championship standings.

In 2008, he earned his first podium finish, securing third place at Monadnock Speedway in his only race of that season.

His career continued to gain momentum as he moved into the Whelen Modified Tour.

In 2013, Preece won his first race and clinched the series championship with four victories that year.

He followed up his success with another impressive season in 2014, finishing second overall, and continued his strong performances in 2015.

Preece’s transition into NASCAR began in 2013 when he made his debut in the Nationwide Series (now Xfinity Series).

He later joined Joe Gibbs Racing, where he scored his first Xfinity Series win in 2017.

His remarkable achievements in NASCAR didn’t stop there, as Preece made his full-time Cup Series debut in 2019 with JTG Daugherty Racing.

By 2026, Preece moved to Stewart-Haas Racing, further cementing his place in the Cup Series.

Throughout his career, Preece has faced numerous challenges, including a horrific crash in 2026 that nearly ended his season.

Despite this, his resilience remained evident, and he bounced back quickly, continuing to compete at the highest level.

On November 19, 2026, it was announced that Preece would join RFK Racing in 2026, driving the No. 60 car full-time.

Ryan Preece and Heather DesRochers Were Racing Competitors Who Turned Into Lifelong Partners

Ryan Preece married his wife, Heather DesRochers, in 2017 after six years of dating.

The couple first met in 2009 at Stafford Motor Speedway, where they shared an instant connection that blossomed into a friendship.

They began in 2011 and got engaged in August 2016.

Their bond grew stronger over time, not just through love but through a shared passion for racing.

Professionally, Heather DesRochers is also a racing driver.

In fact, in 2011, they competed against each other in the SK Modified Series at Stafford Motor Speedway.

While Ryan won the championship, Heather was named Rookie of the Year.

From competitors to lovers, their relationship flourished, and today, they have been happily married for nearly seven years.

Heather’s racing ambitions began early.

In 2009, at just 20 years old, she became one of only 30 drivers selected for the prestigious NASCAR “Drive for Diversity” combine.

Although she didn’t make the cut that year (and failed again in 2010), Heather’s journey wasn’t without its rewards – most notably, meeting Ryan at Stafford Motor Speedway.

Heather admits it “wasn’t love at first sight” – especially since Ryan was a recent high school graduate and a little younger than her – but their connection grew over time, leading them to where they are today.

Heather’s unwavering support has been vital to Ryan’s career.

She has stood by him at every milestone, from his 2013 NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour championship win to his current position driving the No. 41 Ford for Stewart-Haas Racing.

Ryan has always appreciated her support, as he shared in a 2019 interview with Dale Jarrett:

Their bond has only grown stronger through both personal and professional challenges.

After Ryan was in a dangerous crash during the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on August 26, 2026, Heather was there to support him as he recovered in the hospital.

— Ryan Preece Racing (@RaceWithPreece)

Earlier that month, Heather had given birth to their beautiful daughter, Rebecca Marie, on August 7, 2026, marking a joyful milestone for the couple.

On Mother’s Day 2026, Ryan posted a heartfelt message to Heather on Instagram, saying:

As of now, Heather and Ryan are focused on raising their daughter and enjoying their growing family while Ryan continues his career.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Ryan Preece is the son of Jeff and Jodie Preece.
• He has two older brothers, Matt and Sean, making him the youngest.
• He completed his high school education at Xavier in 2009.

• Check other Articles on

Sabin Manandhar is a skilled content writer specializing in clear, engaging digital content. He focuses on quality and alignment, creating captivating narratives that resonate with audiences.

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