Chase Elliott’s crew has confirmed a bold new approach for NASCAR’s upcoming race, with their ROVAL playoff strategy evolving after a pivotal win in Kansas. With a playoff position secured, the Hendrick Motorsports No. 9 team, led by crew chief Alan Gustafson, is prepared to capitalize on strategic freedom in Charlotte’s unique and unpredictable track environment.
Kansas Success Sets the Stage for ROVAL Risks
Following their dramatic overtime victory in Kansas, Alan Gustafson addressed what set the team’s approach apart this postseason.
That was really a big focus of ours here. We wanted to get enough points,
Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief. This statement highlighted the team’s larger objective of gaining enough playoff points to alter their mindset going forward.
Gustafson detailed how the team calculated their playoff campaign:
We felt like if we finished third in both stages and finished third in the race, that would be enough points that we could go race the ROVAL and not have to run for stage points.
Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief. This strategy allowed them to enter the ROVAL without the burden of seeking every available stage point.
In recent years, pressure to collect stage points impacted Elliott’s results at Charlotte’s ROVAL. Gustafson acknowledged that their inability to focus on solely winning, due to the necessity of playing the points game, had previously limited the No. 9 team’s performance despite having well-prepared cars.
Now, with advancement guaranteed, Elliott and the team can shift their attention to maximizing playoff points, approaching the race with fewer restrictions. Chase Elliott, one of only two drivers with multiple ROVAL victories, gains an opportunity to display his capability when not constrained by tight playoff scenarios.
Decisive Overtime Call Demonstrates Team’s Boldness
Gustafson demonstrated a willingness to make high-stakes decisions during the Kansas race, employing a four-tire strategy in overtime which secured the win when competitors opted for a more conservative two-tire approach. The calculated risk not only paid off, but boosted momentum for the No. 9 team heading into Charlotte.
WHAT A FINISH BY CHASE ELLIOTT TO PASS BUBBA WALLACE AND PUT THE DOOR TO DENNY HAMLIN ON THE LAST LAP FOR THE WIN 🏆 #NASCAR
pic.twitter.com/2KLfi7yqBA
Rick Arnold, NASCAR Commentator
Leadership’s Perspective: Momentum and Mentality
Hendrick Motorsports Vice Chairman Jeff Gordon recognized the victory’s significance for the team’s mindset.
Obviously this is a huge spark for the nine team… I love seeing what we did did last week at New Hampshire,
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman. Gordon recalled a revealing exchange in Kansas, further emphasizing a shift in mentality:
Alan said something about the cut line, and Chase basically came back with, ‘Forget the cut line.’
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman. This “all-in” attitude defines the No. 9 team’s ROVAL approach.
With advancement already assured, Elliott and Gustafson are free to chase race victory and crucial playoff points at Charlotte, rather than simply ensuring safe progression.
Aggressive Approach Poised to Change ROVAL Dynamics
Charlotte’s ROVAL is known for its unpredictability, amplifying the impact of bold strategies. Gustafson and Elliott’s willingness to take chances could produce opportunities unavailable to rivals unwilling to gamble. While past years saw the team temper their aggression for points survival, this year they bring a “nothing to lose” attitude into a race where chaos often shapes the outcome.
With the rest of the playoff contenders focused on avoiding elimination, the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports crew will be in position to capitalize, potentially reshaping the playoff landscape based on their aggressive strategy. All eyes will be on Elliott’s performance as he seeks another ROVAL win, with the confidence that their Kansas win has afforded them strategic flexibility and renewed momentum.
WHAT A FINISH BY CHASE ELLIOTT TO PASS BUBBA WALLACE AND PUT THE DOOR TO DENNY HAMLIN ON THE LAST LAP FOR THE WIN 🏆 #NASCAR
pic.twitter.com/2KLfi7yqBA— Rick Arnold (@onenastycamaro) September 28, 2025
