Racing Driver Reveals Husband's Surprising Message from When She was 14

NASCAR driver Natalie Decker recently shared a story on the “Speedway Sessions” podcast about how she met her now-husband, Derek Lemke, sparking online debate. The controversy centers around a message he sent when she was still a teenager.

Early Meetings

Decker recalled first seeing Lemke at a race track when she was 14 and he was 18. She described being captivated by his presence, even joking to her father about marrying him someday. Over the years, they continued to encounter each other at racing events.

The Controversial Message

After an Oktoberfest event during the racing season, Lemke sent Decker an Instagram message saying, "Call me when you’re 18." Decker responded affirmatively, noting that he seemingly had a girlfriend at that time. Their direct communication began after she turned 18.

Public Reaction

The podcast ignited debate over whether the message constituted grooming behavior. Fans and commentators have discussed the implications of their age difference and the appropriateness of such interactions.

Decker has balanced her racing career with family life challenges, facing scrutiny not just for her performance but now for this personal story. Neither she nor Lemke has publicly addressed the recent discussions beyond her initial remarks on the podcast.