Star Hendrick Motorsports driver Chase Elliott recently shared his thoughts on how the #9 Chevy team has handled a challenging winless streak. Having not visited the victory lane in over a year since his triumph at Texas, Elliott acknowledged the team’s failure to meet expectations, yet expressed that they have learned valuable lessons from this period of drought.
Prior to his skiing accident in 2023, Elliott enjoyed a successful run, consistently winning races and being considered a championship contender since earning his first victory in 2018. However, the #9 Hendrick Motorsports team has struggled to maintain that momentum in recent seasons, achieving just one points-paying win since 2023, which was also at Texas Motor Speedway last year.
As the team heads to Talladega Superspeedway while facing a daunting 36-race winless streak, Chase Elliott reflected on how he and the team are coping with the lack of success. He noted that the #9 crew has been learning from their experiences each week, regardless of the race outcomes. Elliott stated, “We are taking in the lessons every weekend, irrespective of the result,” providing insight into their collective mindset during tough times.
The 2020 Cup champion expressed confidence in crew chief Alan Gustafson and the rest of the #9 Hendrick Motorsports team, emphasizing that while they have demonstrated competitive speed, they have yet to fulfill the high expectations set by a championship-winning organization. Compared to his teammates, William Byron and Kyle Larson, who have consistently showcased race-winning speed, Elliott and Alex Bowman have struggled to maintain their position at the front, though Bowman has shown some potential this season. Notably, Elliott has led the fewest laps among the four HMS drivers, with just 44 laps led.
Following his victory at Texas, Elliott did secure an Xfinity race win at Charlotte and triumphed in the Clash at Bowman Gray. He has also exhibited race-winning potential during the final rounds of the 2024 playoff season, hinting at his capability to return to form.
As the Talladega Superspeedway race weekend approaches, Chase Elliott shared a personal revelation about race-day superstitions. He mentioned how he has relinquished these beliefs, stating that he no longer places stock in them after earlier career habits. Instead, he now takes a more methodical approach, focusing on the necessary details in race preparation.
Looking ahead to the race at the 2.66-mile oval, Elliott noted the importance of positioning himself at the front of the pack and avoiding wrecks. He will be aiming for his third Talladega victory, starting 30th on the grid for the Jack Link’s 500, which is scheduled for Sunday, April 27.
Chase Elliott’s reflections on this winless streak highlight not just the challenges faced, but also the growth and learning that can come from difficult times, proving that resilience is an essential element of racing.
