Chase Elliott finally broke his 42-race losing streak with a win at the AutoTrader EchoPark Automotive 400 at Texas Motor Speedway last week. This victory was his first since October 2022 at Talladega Superspeedway, leading many to question if Elliott is back to his elite form. Kevin Harvick, on his show “Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour,” commended Elliott for his aggressive racing style, especially on restarts, which helped him secure the win. Harvick emphasized the importance of Elliott’s success to the sport and highlighted the pressure Elliott may feel to perform. Despite facing challenges in recent years like injuries, suspensions, and adapting to the new car, Elliott’s win came without any major changes to his team, showcasing his ability to drive fast.
During the race, Elliott led 39 laps and won by a margin of .558 seconds, placing him fourth in the NASCAR Cup Series in total points with 303. This win marked his fourth top-10 finish and third top-five finish of the season. As a 28-year-old with 19 career wins and the 2020 Cup Series championship under his belt, Elliott has proven himself as a talented driver. However, his previous season was marred by a broken leg and suspension, causing him to miss races and finish 17th in the standings. Harvick believes that with the challenges of the 2023 season behind him and a notable win now secured, Elliott is on the path to further success. Harvick emphasized the importance of mental strength in racing and the need for balance in all aspects of life to achieve ultimate success, suggesting that Elliott’s recent win could set the stage for more victories in the future.
Looking ahead, Elliott will aim for back-to-back wins at the upcoming GEICO 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. The race will be broadcast on FOX and the FOX Sports app, giving fans a chance to see if Elliott can continue his momentum from Texas Motor Speedway. With his newfound confidence and renewed success, Elliott will be a driver to watch in the upcoming races, as he seeks to solidify his place among the elite drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. The support and encouragement from fellow drivers like Harvick, as well as the backing of his team, will play a crucial role in Elliott’s journey back to the top of the sport. As Elliott continues to showcase his skills on the track, fans and competitors alike will be eagerly awaiting his next moves and potential victories in the competitive world of NASCAR.