Chase Elliott’s career with Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) has been marked by resilience and loyalty, both on and off the track. Over the last decade, Elliott has established himself not only with his skill behind the wheel but also through his deep connections with his team. As the son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Bill Elliott, Chase has faced immense expectations while carving out his own legacy in the sport. After recently ending a 44-race winless drought with a victory at Atlanta in 2025, Elliott shared insights into how perseverance and steadfast relationships have shaped his journey in NASCAR.
From his breakthrough as a rookie in 2016 to becoming the 2020 Cup Series champion, Elliott’s path has been filled with thrilling highs and challenging setbacks. His hold on the iconic #9 seat at Hendrick Motorsports represents more than just driving—it reflects dedication through tough times, including injury setbacks and pressure-filled returns. His story resonates as a testament to determination in the face of adversity.
A Candid Look at the Emotional Journey with Hendrick Motorsports
Joining Hendrick Motorsports full-time in 2016, Chase Elliott arrived with a strong reputation, having won the Xfinity Series Championship in 2014 while driving for JR Motorsports. With three wins and a remarkable consistency during that season, he was among the sport’s most promising talents. Still, the pressure was immense—Elliott stepped into big shoes, replacing four-time Cup champion Jeff Gordon in the revered #24 car, while carrying the legacy of his champion father.
Speaking openly about the realities of his NASCAR path, Elliott emphasized the importance of loyalty and support within his team. In a SiriusXM NASCAR interview, he said,
“You know, it’s not every day that you encounter people like that who just have your back, no matter what. And I just think that those things should be celebrated and emphasized and held onto as long as everybody’s willing to do it. And you’re grateful for all the relationships on the 9 team I’ve made throughout the years. A lot of us have been together for ten seasons.”
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Since day one on the #24 team, Elliott has relied on the guidance of crew chief Alan Gustafson. Their partnership has endured victories and setbacks alike. Elliott’s debut in the Daytona 500 was historic—winning the pole and becoming the youngest-ever pole-sitter for the race. After transitioning to car #9, he secured at least two wins in every season from 2018 to 2022, with five victories during his 2020 championship campaign and a strong performance in 2022. However, the last few years introduced new challenges.
Reflecting on those difficulties, Elliott shared,
“I think that’s an important thing to remember. You’d be hard-pressed to find a group of people who know you better than the folks who’ve been loyal to you and had your back for this entire time. So, certainly grateful for that.”
He continued,
“I haven’t enjoyed every day of the journey, but it’s been a lot of fun on some days. And on days you don’t enjoy, you have to find a way to remind yourself it’s part of the process, something you’re going through for a reason.”
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
Notably, 2023 was a particularly tough year for Elliott after a snowboarding accident caused a leg injury, forcing him to miss multiple races. His comeback carried intense expectations, a pressure made more bearable by the continued support from his Hendrick Motorsports team.
The Power of Loyalty During the Winless Drought
Throughout a challenging 44-race stretch without a win, Elliott’s connection with his Hendrick Motorsports team remained strong. On the SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90, he highlighted the unique bond within the team, stating,
“It’s not every day that you encounter people like that, that just have your back no matter what.”
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
This steadfastness was evident as teammates like Kyle Larson and Alex Bowman have also praised HMS’s supportive culture. Larson often credits the team for helping him regain his career momentum after his 2020 suspension, while Bowman has described the atmosphere as a “family.” For Elliott, this loyalty proved vital, especially when his on-track success wavered.
The Significance of the Atlanta Victory in 2025
Breaking his winless streak with a triumph at Atlanta in 2025 was a milestone for Elliott, reflecting the patience and persistence he maintained through difficult times. Elliott expressed his appreciation for team owner Rick Hendrick, saying,
“I’m just really grateful for Mr. Hendrick and everything he’s done for me. He’s always believed in me, even when things weren’t going our way.”
—Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver
The win at Atlanta was especially meaningful as it took place at his hometown track in Georgia, adding an emotional layer to the accomplishment. It showcased Elliott’s consistency this season, where he managed top-20 finishes regularly despite the pressure. The victory represented not just the end of a frustrating drought but also a validation of his resilience and focus.
Understanding Chase Elliott’s Broader Impact on NASCAR
Chase Elliott’s NASCAR perseverance journey highlights more than just the tally of wins; it underscores the importance of integrity, self-awareness, and growth through adversity. His openness about the struggles faced behind the scenes humanizes the competitive pressures drivers endure and serves as an example for fans and competitors alike.
His career progression—from a celebrated rookie to a Cup Series champion, through injury and setbacks, and now back to winning form—illustrates the complexity of long-term success in racing. Elliott’s loyalty to Hendrick Motorsports and the reciprocal support from the team illustrate the value of strong relationships in a sport often defined by split-second outcomes.
Looking ahead, Elliott’s story of perseverance is likely to inspire not only his team and fellow drivers but also fans watching the sport. Breaking through challenges without losing sight of personal and professional values marks a significant chapter in NASCAR’s evolving narrative.
