Chase Elliott expressed his thoughts on the recent introduction of podium celebrations in NASCAR after finishing third at the race in Mexico City at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. While Elliott acknowledges the appeal of this tradition common in Formula 1, IndyCar, and other motorsports, he emphasized the importance of NASCAR maintaining its unique identity.
During the Mexico City event, Elliott stood alongside winner Shane van Gisbergen and runner-up Christopher Bell in a podium-style ceremony, a sight not traditionally seen in NASCAR. The idea of integrating podiums into NASCAR has been discussed before; for example, Kyle Larson suggested using podium celebrations for major races such as the Daytona 500 or Coca-Cola 600. However, the practice remains uncommon within the sport.
Chase Elliott Reflects on NASCAR’s Podium Culture and Identity
On the Saturday before the next race at Pocono Raceway, Elliott shared a thoughtful viewpoint on whether NASCAR should adopt podium ceremonies more regularly. He began by respecting Shane van Gisbergen’s victory and acknowledging the winner’s deserved moment of recognition. Elliott said he had no issue with celebrating the top finishers, but also recognized that this style is not in NASCAR’s tradition.
He stated,
“Yeah, I am not really for it or against it,”
and added,
“I am fine with it. I have no problem giving Shane (van Gisbergen) his congratulations and making sure that he is celebrated properly. He won the race. He deserved the right to that.”
Elliott further noted his acceptance of being the “second loser” and appreciating the efforts of his competitors.
While open to the change, Elliott made it clear that NASCAR should not adopt podiums simply because other motorsports use them. He said,
“But that has not historically been us. So I just want to make sure our focus is being us as NASCAR and that’s OK. We are our own form of motorsports and I think we can stand on our own two feet and we can do our own thing. So, as long as we are not doing it to be like everybody else, I am fine. But if that is the case, I am also good not doing it.”
Context of Podium Celebrations in NASCAR and Beyond
Podium ceremonies, featuring the top three drivers sharing the stage and celebrating, are a standard part of many international motorsports. They offer a clear visual marker of the race results and a moment of glory for the leading competitors. NASCAR, however, has traditionally focused more on winner-specific celebrations, such as victory lane presentations, without publicly highlighting second and third places in the same manner.
Kyle Larson’s earlier comments hinted at expanding podium usage at select high-profile NASCAR events, appealing to fans and drivers seeking increased acknowledgment beyond just the winner. Nonetheless, the broader NASCAR community appears divided on whether to adopt this element permanently or maintain traditional celebrations unique to the sport’s heritage.
Upcoming NASCAR Race and Elliott’s Continued Competitiveness
Chase Elliott and the rest of the NASCAR field are set to compete again on Sunday at Pocono Raceway, with race coverage starting at 2 p.m. ET on Prime. Elliott’s views on NASCAR’s podium tradition come at a time when the sport is exploring ways to evolve while honoring its past. As one of the prominent voices in the Cup Series, his perspective highlights the balance between embracing new ideas and preserving NASCAR’s distinct culture.
