Chase Elliott responds to outside criticism with indifference, focusing on the people closest to his racing efforts, following his dramatic Cup Series triumph at EchoPark Speedway. The star driver addressed how he manages negativity from outsiders days after his latest win on his home track.
Elliott Prioritizes Team and Core Supporters Over Outside Opinions
Chase Elliott, who pilots the No. 9 car for Hendrick Motorsports, shared candid insights in a recent New York Times interview about his mindset regarding external judgments. Instead of seeking out what people think or say about him, Elliott directs his attention to his pit crew, teammates, and the inner circle that helps him perform on track. When questioned about potential misconceptions surrounding him, he revealed a deliberate distance from public scrutiny, choosing to invest energy only where it matters most for his performance.
“I don’t really ask enough to care to know, honestly — and that’s fine. I’m totally OK with that. You have the folks who are around you — your team and the people you go to battle with each week — and it’s about showing up for them at the end of the day. I have really learned to put less and less stock in that,” Chase Elliott said.
His approach is intentional, based on the experience that a race’s outcome often leads to criticism or praise from those outside his immediate group. Elliott, a winner of seven Most Popular Driver awards and the 2020 Cup Series champion, emphasized that loyal fans and his own standards take precedence over any outside narrative. According to Elliott, what really counts are the people who stand by him regardless of results.
“You do have some true fans out there who are going to support you and appreciate you on your good days and your bad days. Those folks have got your back all the time. Outside of that, the outside stuff just is what it is. I don’t ask. I just try to do my thing and be me, and to make sure I’m showing up for the folks who show up for me, who are ultimately going to be in your life beyond all this stuff. That’s important to me, and I don’t go too far past that,” Chase Elliott said.
A Triumphant Return and a Heartfelt Dedication
Elliott’s thrilling finish at EchoPark Speedway marked his first victory of the 2025 NASCAR season. He clinched the win by overtaking Brad Keselowski during the closing lap, driving his No. 9 NAPA machine with a special paint scheme contributed by Rhealynn, a young patient from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The emotionally charged victory was notable for both its on-track drama and the connection to the hospital that inspired Elliott’s car design.
After crossing the finish line, Elliott posted a video on social media showing Rhealynn greeting him at the track. He openly dedicated his victory to Rhealynn and all of the children receiving care at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, bringing further emotional resonance to the achievement.
With this win, Elliott became the twelfth different champion of the 2025 Cup Series season, notched his twentieth career win, and repeated success at his hometrack. His journey—marked by resilience against criticism and the strength drawn from his supporters—continues to inspire fans as he advances through the campaign.
Continued Impact and What to Expect Ahead
This victory underscores Elliott’s continued role as a prominent force in NASCAR, as well as his connection to both fans and those in need, like the child patients at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. His stance toward outside criticism demonstrates a focus that could fuel further success for his team and himself as the Cup Series progresses. With the season advancing and Elliott reaffirming his priorities, attention will turn to how his approach influences both his performance and his relationships moving forward.
