After Chase Elliott secured a dramatic victory at Kansas, Corey LaJoie offered fresh NASCAR insights into what the win could mean for the Hendrick Motorsports driver and his team. LaJoie, who has deep connections with many current competitors, shared his perspective as both a past substitute for the No. 9 car and a current broadcaster, bringing context to Elliott’s performance and its broader impact on NASCAR dynamics.
Chase Elliott’s Strategic Win at Kansas
Elliott’s success came after a prolonged, competitive race where the final laps saw him restart from the fifth row. Prior to overtime restarts, Elliott and his team made a crucial decision to change four tires, while others took just two, a move led by crew chief Alan Gustafson. This key strategy, combined with Elliott’s driving prowess in the closing moments, helped them overcome a field dominated by Toyota vehicles and allowed the Chevrolet-powered Hendrick entry to take the checkered flag.
Corey LaJoie, observing both from his broadcast role and as a former stand-in for Elliott, expressed satisfaction with the win.
“When Clyde wins, we all win. Pumped for the 9 guys,”
said LaJoie, celebrating the victory and its significance for the team—LaJoie, Broadcaster and Driver.
He also highlighted the importance of Gustafson’s contribution:
“For those who may have forgotten, Alan Gustafson is still a first ballot hall of famer.”
This comment solidified Gustafson’s reputation as a vital figure behind Elliott’s late-race strategy—LaJoie, Broadcaster and Driver.
LaJoie’s Continued Influence and Unique Perspective
Though LaJoie’s own racing career has faced challenges recently, his ongoing involvement in the sport and relationships with drivers and teams make his insights especially relevant. His temporary role as substitute driver for Elliott during a suspension in 2023 provided firsthand understanding of the inner workings of Hendrick Motorsports, even if that particular outing didn’t result in notable success.
In addition to his experience behind the wheel, LaJoie has recently built a reputation as a skilled broadcaster and podcaster, bringing a valuable, up-to-date perspective to media discussions about NASCAR. As he continues to rack up laps in the Truck Series with Spire Motorsports, his commentary remains fresh and informed, offering an insider’s take that few outside current drivers can match.
Beyond the technical aspects, LaJoie has openly shared his enthusiasm for races like Elliott’s Kansas victory and speculates on what this could mean for the rest of Hendrick’s season. The team’s renewed momentum could position them for a strong run into the final playoff rounds, possibly culminating in a Championship 4 appearance in Phoenix.
The Broader Context of NASCAR and Broadcasting
The recent victory has also sparked broader conversations about team dynamics and the evolving role of broadcasting within NASCAR. With LaJoie’s transition from full-time driver to prominent commentator, viewers and fans are gaining richer, more passionate analysis rooted in current racing realities. This dual role is rare and amplifies the value of perspectives like LaJoie’s, especially as he continues to take part in selected 2025 races.
Elliott’s victory has energized both his team and the wider NASCAR community. With influential voices like LaJoie weighing in—supported by strong working experience with teams like Hendrick—anticipation is building for whether this win will turn into a championship run. The coming weeks on the circuit will reveal if the momentum can carry through to Phoenix and potentially reshape the championship battle.
When Clyde wins, we all win. Pumped for the 9 guys. For those who may have forgotten, Alan Gustafson is still a first ballot hall of famer.
— Corey LaJoie (@CoreyLaJoie) September 28, 2025
