Chase Elliott showcased a mix of exhaustion and determination after finishing fifth in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway. Leaning against his No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, Elliott expressed satisfaction with his performance but still feels a strong desire for victory. Despite boasting the only streak of top-20 finishes in all 17 races this season, the former champion remains without a win, a fact he finds frustrating.
“I think for us there have been some high spots… but there have been weeks where we are just not even relevant, and those are the most frustrating to me,” he shared. Elliott is ranked fifth in the standings, 80 points behind his teammate, William Byron, as the series approaches the conclusion of the regular season. With nine races left before the 2025 NASCAR Playoffs, he is the highest-ranked driver yet to claim a win this season, which both motivates and challenges him.
Elliott’s recent finishes, including back-to-back top fives with his best performance at the Mexico City road course, have given him a boost of confidence. His upcoming races at Atlanta—which he considers his “home track”—and the two road courses ahead are seen as crucial opportunities for him. Elliott has a proven track record at Atlanta, with multiple top-10 finishes, while he also excels on road courses, holding seven career victories on that track type, making him the top active driver in that category.
Additionally, the NASCAR landscape is heating up with new competitive structures, including the inaugural In-Season Challenge, offering a $1 million prize over the next five races. This high-stakes environment intensifies the need for drivers like Elliott to channel their skills effectively.
Elliott’s candid reflections highlight his dedication and resilience, reminding fans that the journey in racing is as significant as the finish line. With the season still underway, he has every chance to turn his hard work into the coveted victory he’s aiming for.