The infamous Chase Elliott Dover NASCAR heartbreak remains one of the sport’s most searing memories, as Kyle Busch snatched victory at the 2017 Apace Warriors 400, shattering Elliott’s dreams in the final moments. This confrontation not only displayed Busch’s aggressive mastery on the track, but also marked a pivotal lesson for future champion Chase Elliott, setting the stage for both their divergent NASCAR journeys.
Kyle Busch’s Peak Era and Elliott’s Early Spark
During the 2017 NASCAR season, Kyle Busch, driving the Joe Gibbs Racing #18 car, represented the relentless drive and intensity that divided fans and electrified crowds wherever he raced. Known for his bold tactics and unapologetic interviews—qualities that earned him both jeers and admiration—Busch cemented his reputation for winning under pressure. At the same time, Chase Elliott was carving his own path as a sophomore in the Cup Series, stepping into the #24 ride after Jeff Gordon’s retirement. Though Elliott didn’t make the playoffs that year, his fast pace and emerging skill suggested a big win was imminent.
The Apace Warriors 400 at Dover captured the fiery rivalry that would define both drivers’ legacies. Despite being one of the youngest to earn a Daytona 500 pole and consistently finishing strong throughout the year, Elliott had yet to claim his first Cup win — until that fateful day at Dover, when triumph appeared just within reach.
A Last-Lap Duel That Shaped Careers
For most of the 2017 Dover race, Chase Elliott displayed remarkable control, particularly in the decisive final stage, where he held the lead for a lengthy run of 59 laps. His command of the track positioned him on the brink of his first-ever Cup Series victory, thrilling Hendrick Legends and fans in the stands alike.
But Kyle Busch, already secure in his playoff future, mounted a fierce late-race surge, reducing a four-second gap during the final 40 laps. On the white flag lap, Busch seized the opportunity presented by lapped traffic, overtaking Elliott around the outside in turn four and accelerating to the finish line just 0.35 seconds ahead. Following his victory, Busch remarked,
Man, I saw that carrot out there… I stalled out… but I got back to the top and got enough momentum…Chase [Elliott] was kind of plugged up with lapped up with lap cars… the lapped cars actually helped us with that one.
—Kyle Busch, JGR Driver
That victory marked Busch’s fourth at Dover and his 42nd Cup Series win, while a stunned Elliott was left to process another near miss for himself and his team.
Tense Aftermath for Elliott and NASCAR’s Emotional Side
The moments after the checkered flag told the story of a young racer’s heartbreak. Chase Elliott, visibly shaken and frustrated, leaned against his car while legendary Hendrick Motorsports teammates gathered to offer comfort. Jimmie Johnson, who finished third, recounted the young driver’s candid outburst, stating,
I anticipated them being cuss words—and they were,
—Jimmie Johnson, Driver
Elliott reflected on the disappointment and his own responsibility for the race’s outcome:
I thought if I had a clean track, I could have run as fast as he did, but I didn’t, and I should have done something different. So that’s just on me, and he [Kyle Busch] did a better job than I did. At the end of the day, that’s what it comes down to. Man, such a bummer, such a disappointment for my team. I don’t really have a whole lot to add.
—Chase Elliott, Hendrick Motorsports Driver
This dramatic episode highlighted the emotional highs and lows of NASCAR, resonating with viewers regardless of which driver they supported. The showdown also underscored the fierce competition and unpredictable nature of top-level stock car racing.
Chase Elliott’s Comeback and Newfound Success
Although the loss at Dover stung, it became a defining lesson for Chase Elliott. The following season, Elliott captured his first career Cup Series victory at Watkins Glen, quickly adding wins at both Dover and Kansas. The momentum from these breakthroughs propelled him toward his 2020 Cup Series Championship, solidifying his reputation among NASCAR’s elite. As of the 2025 season, he sits second in the driver’s championship after securing a playoff spot with a win in Atlanta—demonstrating remarkable growth since that early heartbreak.
The contrast between Elliott’s ascent and Busch’s current struggles has sparked ongoing discussions among fans about who truly sits atop the NASCAR hierarchy today. The turbulent journeys of each driver continue to add fresh chapters to the legacy of their rivalry.
Kyle Busch’s Battle to Rekindle Old Form
In stark contrast to his former dominance, Kyle Busch now faces significant adversity as he endures his longest career winless streak—over two years since his last victory at Gateway in June 2023. Despite flashes of competitiveness this season, including a near-miss at COTA and a top-5 finish in the Chicago Street race, Busch’s No. 8 chevrolet/”>Chevrolet has struggled for consistent speed, tallying just seven top-ten finishes and two top-fives while averaging a 17.25 finish. The once-feared driver has seen his playoff hopes dwindle along with his time near the front of the pack.
NASCAR icon Kevin Harvick recently weighed in on Busch’s 2025 prospects, giving a blunt and realistic outlook:
I just think it’s too inconsistent at this point. I think he has his strengths—he’s Kyle freaking Busch… he could go to Daytona and win—I don’t believe he’s going to win anywhere else.
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Legend
Statistically, Busch’s path to the playoffs narrows with each race, and his chances may rest on a wild-card scenario at Daytona, a race known for its unpredictability. Notably, drivers like Harrison Burton captured surprise victories in 2024, while William Byron secured a win after running eighth on the final lap following a wreck.
What’s Next for NASCAR’s Icons?
With just six regular season races left, Busch must overcome a 37-point deficit to reach the playoff cut. As the grid tightens and stakes rise, all eyes will turn to the next clash at Dover—site of so much drama between these two rivals. Meanwhile, Chase Elliott continues to prove that perseverance and growth can turn heartbreak into championship form, his journey inspiring the next wave of Cup Series hopefuls.
The Chase Elliott Dover NASCAR heartbreak remains a powerful reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in racing, shaping the destinies of even the sport’s brightest stars. As the saga of Elliott and Busch continues, NASCAR fans everywhere await the next finish line, where another legacy may be forever rewritten.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Chase Elliott fly a jet?
A. Sportskeeda reports that Chase Elliott is heading to Super Bowl LIX in his private jet, worth $1.8 million. ✈️🏈 More information can be found here: https://sk.news/JUe0rD | Facebook.
Q. Does Chase Elliott fly his own jet?
A. Chase Elliott is a well-known NASCAR driver and a skilled pilot. He is certified to fly the 525B jet solo and can also fly helicopters.
Q. Does Chase Elliott own a jet?
A. Sportskeeda reports that Chase Elliott is heading to Super Bowl LIX aboard his private jet, which is valued at $1.8 million.
Q. Does Chase Elliott have his own jet?
A. NASCAR champion Chase Elliott bought a 2013 Cessna Citation 525B. He replaced his older 2006 model, which he put up for sale earlier. Southern Pipe & Supply, a company in Meridian, Mississippi, previously owned his new plane.
