Chase Elliott, a consistent performer throughout the NASCAR season, encountered a disappointing start to the playoffs with a 17th-place finish in his opening postseason race. As he prepares to race at the World Wide Technology Raceway in Illinois, a crucial member of his team will be absent due to a family matter, creating an added obstacle for the Hendrick Motorsports No. 9 driver.
Elliott’s usual spotter, Trey Poole, will miss the Gateway event, leaving Elliott to rely on his backup spotter, Tyler Deering. Poole’s absence represents a significant disruption, as spotters play an essential role in guiding drivers through races by providing critical information on track conditions and competitors.
Struggles at Gateway Add Pressure Ahead of Playoff Race
The World Wide Technology Raceway has long been a difficult venue for Elliott, making his playoff spotter absence even more challenging. Despite competing twice at Gateway, Elliott has yet to secure a top-10 finish there, placing 21st in 2022 and 13th earlier this year. This track remains the only one on the current NASCAR Cup Series schedule where Elliott has not broken into the top tier.
Momentum has not favored Elliott recently, as he has managed just a single top-10 finish over his last six races heading into Gateway. With the added challenge of losing his regular spotter, Elliott faces an uphill battle to compete successfully at a track that has historically troubled him.
Temporary Spotter Replacement and Team Dynamics
To fill the gap left by Poole, Tyler Deering will step in as Elliott’s spotter for the race weekend. Deering has experience working with the No. 9 team during road-course events and will also manage spotter duties for the Jordan Anderson No. 32 car competing in the Xfinity Series.
“Chase Elliott spotter Trey Poole is not on the roster for this weekend as he is on baby watch. Tyler Deering, who has been with the 9 team as an additional spotter for road-course weekends, will fill in. Deering also will do the Jordan Anderson No. 32 car in Xfinity.” —Bob Pockrass, FOX Sports motorsports reporter
Poole holds a uniquely close relationship with Elliott, as he is also Elliott’s cousin. He stepped into the full-time spotter role after replacing Eddie D’Hondt, who had served as Elliott’s spotter since his arrival at Hendrick Motorsports in 2016. The transition represented a team decision designed to improve performance.
Elliott has reflected on this change, recognizing both the importance of D’Hondt’s contributions and the timing of Poole’s promotion. He explained the collaborative nature of the decision, emphasizing respect for his former spotter.
“We just got to a point where we felt like if we were going to make a change, now was the right time to do it.” —Chase Elliott
“And, look, Ed’s been a great teammate. I love Ed. We still have a good relationship even today. He’s been a huge part of our team for a long time. I don’t want that to get lost in translation. I think a lot of him as a person, and he’s done a lot for me.” —Chase Elliott
Adapting to New Challenges in the Playoffs
Poole initially served as Elliott’s secondary spotter before taking over the primary role. While he might not have the extensive experience that D’Hondt brings—who has worked with multiple championship-caliber drivers—Poole’s close connection with Elliott has been valuable for team communication. This bond helps Elliott navigate the demanding conditions of NASCAR races.
As Elliott gears up for the Gateway race without the familiar guidance of Poole, the driver faces one of his toughest playoff challenges. The combination of a historically difficult track and the absence of a key spotter elevates the stakes for the Hendrick Motorsports team.
The outcome at Gateway will be critical for Elliott’s standing in the playoffs. Success there could help regain momentum, while a poor result may deepen the challenges he faces on the road to the NASCAR Cup Series championship.
