Chase Elliott delivered a memorable performance during his Charlotte ROVAL comeback, shocking NASCAR fans at Charlotte Motor Speedway. On that intense day in Concord, N.C., with 45 laps remaining, Elliott’s pursuit of victory was nearly derailed after a dramatic crash threatened to end his run, yet he fought back with determination.
Innovative Format Adds Pressure to Playoffs
In 2018, NASCAR introduced a novel twist to its playoff tracks, with Charlotte Motor Speedway unveiling a 17-turn, 2.28-mile hybrid circuit known as the ROVAL. This challenging design, carved from the infield, brought a unique element to the sport’s high-stakes season finale and demanded adaptability from teams and drivers.
Elliott’s Growing Reputation on Road Courses
Chase Elliott had already begun to assert himself as a master of road courses. By the time of the Charlotte event, he had demonstrated strong performances, starting with his 2018 victory at Watkins Glen. Elliott would later secure a streak of four consecutive road course wins, three of which came during his 2020 Cup Series championship campaign. His reputation as a road-racing ace was steadily growing among competitors and fans alike.
Disaster Strikes as Elliott Faces Setback
With the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet in a prime position near the front, Elliott looked poised to seize control of the race. As the field lined up for a crucial restart, he shot ahead but quickly ran into trouble at turn one, overshooting the corner and slamming directly into the tire barrier, causing immediate concern for his car’s condition. The tense moment was underscored by Elliott’s own admission into his radio,
I can’t believe I just did that
, Chase Elliott, Driver. Reflecting on the shocking incident during the post-race press conference, Elliott offered further honesty:
At the time I thought we were done for sure,
Chase Elliott, Driver. He continued,
You know, I could see they were showing it up on the big screen. I was like, well, the hood is not that bad. I thought the splitter was knocked up, and I felt like if that was going to be the case, then we were probably done from there. Obviously, just a really, stupid mistake.
Chase Elliott, Driver.
Crew Chief’s Quick Thinking Saves the Day
Back in the pit stall, Elliott’s crew chief, Alan Gustafson, immediately assessed the damage to the No. 9 Chevrolet. Gustafson recalled the initial conditions with clarity:
It seemed like it pushed the hood down more than anything, pushed the hood inside of the top of the fenders and back into the windshield,
Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief. He explained the team’s rapid response,
The biggest thing we really had to do (was) get that back sealed up and get it down. As long as the splitter was intact and in good condition, no tire rubs, we were going to be in decent shape.
Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief. Their efforts kept Elliott in the fight, minimizing the impact of the crash and allowing him to re-enter the race.
Resilient Finish and Lasting Impact
Despite the setback, Elliott’s unwavering determination and the swift work of his crew propelled him back into contention. His ability to overcome adversity at the Charlotte ROVAL not only bolstered his reputation but also inspired fans and competitors. The high-pressure drama at Charlotte Motor Speedway served as a defining moment for Elliott’s career, reinforcing why his Charlotte ROVAL comeback remains a highlight in NASCAR’s playoff history.
