Kyle Larson expressed surprise at the significant effect Chase Elliott’s Atlanta victory had on the NASCAR Cup Series title standings. Elliott’s steady performance and accumulation of stage points quietly moved him closer in the championship battle, catching Larson off guard as the playoffs intensified.
Before winning at Atlanta, Elliott had maintained a consistent presence near the front, regularly finishing in the top 10 and avoiding any Did Not Finish (DNF) results through 19 races. Meanwhile, Larson’s standing fell to third place after a disappointing 17th-place finish in Atlanta. On July 12 at Sonoma Raceway, Larson spoke to reporters about Elliott’s growing influence in the title chase.
“We’ve been missing out on stage points. So, we’ve kind of lost track a little bit there and and others have been doing a good job. And Chase is always consistent, so he’s just quietly kind of there, you know, after his win that he had, I was shocked. I didn’t even know he was that close in points,” —Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports driver
The Atlanta race was marked by multiple crashes and caution periods, yet Elliott skillfully navigated the chaos to secure his first victory after a long winless spell. Both Elliott and Larson qualified outside the top 10 at Sonoma, with their Hendrick Motorsports teammate and points leader William Byron securing a third-place qualifying spot. Despite this, Larson leads the playoff field with three wins.
Fans are encouraged to tune into Sunday’s Toyota/Save Mart 350 broadcast on TNT Sports at 3:30 PM ET, or follow live updates via SiriusXM radio coverage.
Chase Elliott’s Approach to Handling Outside Criticism
In a candid discussion with Jeff Gluck of the New York Times, Chase Elliott described how he manages public expectations and criticism. He emphasized that external opinions hold little weight compared to the support of his team and close circle, focusing instead on delivering results for those who matter most to him.
“I don’t really ask enough to care to know, honestly — and that’s fine. I’m totally OK with that. You have the folks who are around you — your team and the people you go to battle with each week — and it’s about showing up for them at the end of the day. I have really learned to put less and less stock in that,” —Chase Elliott, Hendrick Motorsports driver
Following his victory at Atlanta, Elliott publicly expressed gratitude to his loyal fan base. The win was especially meaningful as it occurred in front of his home crowd, with Elliott sharing the triumphant moment with supporters in the stands. Known as <a href="https://www.big14news.com/nascar/”>NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver for seven consecutive years, he has effectively taken on the mantle once held by Dale Earnhardt Jr., strengthening his connection with fans as he returns to winning form.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Chase Elliott fly a helicopter?
A. Hometown: Dawsonville, Ga. Interests include piloting aircraft, snowboarding, and wakeboarding. Enjoys dirt biking, working out, and cheering for local baseball and football teams. Loves going to country music concerts.
Q. Does Chase Elliott have a jet?
A. In New Orleans, Chase Elliott showcased his private jet, which is worth $5.69 million, after Super Bowl LIX. He stated, “If I’m not pushing my mind somehow, I feel like I’m wasting away.” Unlike others, Elliott chooses unique hobbies to keep his brain engaged.
