Chase Elliott has outlined his straightforward approach as he prepares for NASCAR’s upcoming in-season tournament, where a $1 million prize and a playoff berth are on the line. The Chase Elliott mindset for NASCAR in-season tournament and playoffs centers on focusing solely on the fundamentals, rather than being distracted by the stakes or pressure that accompany the unique format launching at his home track in Atlanta on June 28.
Elliott Emphasizes Process over Pressure Heading Into Tournament
The new single-elimination NASCAR in-season tournament will feature 32 teams competing for the grand prize, and it comes as Elliott continues his hunt for a win this season. As anticipation mounts, the #9 driver was asked prior to the Nashville Cup race how closely he’s watching the tournament while keeping the broader playoff picture in view.
Elliott remains committed to a process-driven outlook, expressing confidence that maintaining high standards and execution on the track will address points and standings naturally. He shared his thoughts in response to questions about balancing tournament ambitions and playoff qualification:
“That’s kind of my approach to all those things. It just does not do you any good to worry about those things. Our expectations and our goals are to try and be amongst those teams that have opportunities to win regularly. You know, if you’re doing that, you’re going to get your turn.
He continued to explain that success is a reflection of both effort and mindset, stating:
“And if you’re not, then you won’t. It’s really that simple. I think that if your goals and your expectations are in a high enough place and where they should be, the stuff that goes on the side will sort itself out, and that’s kind of how I’ll view that, as well,” Elliott described.
When questioned about the possibility of feeling pressure or anxiety over his winless streak this season or not securing a stage win, Elliott made it clear that he refuses to let such negative emotions take hold. Instead, his focus remains firmly on his targets—securing victories and achieving the milestones he values most as a driver representing Dawsonville and competing on behalf of his team.
Playoff Standings Reflect Consistency, Not Just Victories
Despite entering the 2025 season still searching for his first win, Chase Elliott’s consistent performances have placed him inside the top 20 for every race and currently rank him fifth in championship points. This ranking puts him just behind fellow drivers who have secured race wins, highlighting the strength of his season even in the absence of a victory.
As the series headed into Nashville, Elliott was again asked about his perspective on sitting comfortably above the playoff cutline, despite not having a race win. He replied with honesty about his priorities and expectations:
“Certainly better to be in that position than on the other side of the fence, no doubt. But I’d be lying if I said that was my top focus. It’s just not. I think that if you’re worried about barely getting into the playoffs, I think you have some work to do. It really is kind of the best way I can think about that.
Elliott’s ambition extends well beyond simply making the playoffs; he wants to be among the drivers competing for the most playoff points, emphasizing the standards he sets for himself and his team:
“And just to talk about my thought process, I want to be better than that. I want to be in the group of people of how many playoff points do you have, not just barely getting in. Our expectations and goals are above that, and we hope that we can achieve all of our goals,” Chase Elliott described.
He also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the season, pointing out that several races remain before the playoff cutoff. Elliott noted that while a win typically solves many problems for drivers aiming for the postseason, failing to reach victory lane keeps the margin for error slim. He drew on past experiences where late-season setbacks threatened playoff qualification, reinforcing his determination to avoid facing such a scenario again as the regular season nears its conclusion after 26 weeks.
Elliott’s Steadfast Attitude Shapes His Path Forward
Looking ahead, Elliott’s mindset and consistency underscore his role as a contender, even as he continues to pursue his first victory of the season. His focus on controlling what he and his team can—preparation, execution, and maintaining high standards—offers a measured contrast to the anxiety that can accompany high-stakes formats like the in-season tournament. As NASCAR prepares for the tournament’s debut in Atlanta, Elliott’s approach will be pivotal not just in his campaign for the $1 million prize, but also in securing his playoff position and striving for further success in the competitive Cup Series field.
Fans and fellow drivers will watch closely to see if Elliott’s philosophy delivers the results he seeks, with every race adding new weight to both the tournament and playoff implications as the season advances.
