Chase Elliott double duty at Pocono Raceway is set to take center stage this weekend, with the celebrated NASCAR driver competing in both the Xfinity and Cup Series events in Pennsylvania. The announcement from Hendrick Motorsports means Elliott will tackle a packed schedule as NASCAR convenes at Pocono Raceway, promising fans an action-filled weekend.
Chase Elliott’s Plans for the Pocono Weekend
Fresh off a third-place finish in Mexico City last Sunday, Elliott now prepares to participate in two different series at Pocono. As confirmed by Hendrick Motorsports, the 2022 Cup Series champion will be behind the wheel of the No. 17 Chevrolet in the Xfinity Series, in addition to piloting his regular No. 9 car in the Cup Series. This move puts Elliott firmly in the spotlight as he extends his already impressive NASCAR résumé with this demanding schedule.
“Surprise! The No. 17 gets a familiar face with Chase Elliott pulling double duty at Pocono Raceway,”
— Hendrick Motorsports, team statement.
The weekend will see Elliott balancing the physical and strategic challenges of back-to-back races. Not only does this determine his stamina, but it also highlights his status as one of the sport’s most versatile talents.
Experience in the Xfinity Series
This is not the first time Elliott has returned to Xfinity competition this season. In April at Darlington, he stepped back into the Xfinity Series, finishing a strong second behind Brandon Jones of Joe Gibbs Racing. Such performances build on Elliott’s history in the series; earlier in his career, he drove two full-time seasons in the No. 9 for JR Motorsports during 2014 and 2015.
Over 86 Xfinity starts, Elliott’s results showcase his consistent competitiveness: six wins, 70 top-ten finishes, and two pole positions. Despite focusing primarily on the Cup Series, his periodic returns to Xfinity racing have continued to bear fruit, including two wins following his initial full-time campaigns.
Significance for NASCAR and Elliott’s Career
Elliott’s double duty at Pocono Raceway comes at a time when the spotlight is strong on NASCAR, with other headlines involving top drivers like Denny Hamlin and ongoing playoff scenarios for competitors like Bubba Wallace. With the Truck, Xfinity, and Cup Series all in action at the same track, fans can expect a high-energy atmosphere and a test of each driver’s versatility. Elliott’s return to Xfinity action underlines his sustained ambition and may inspire other Cup drivers to follow suit. As the races unfold, attention remains fixed on Elliott’s performance, and whether this demanding schedule translates into a landmark weekend in his storied career.
