Chase Elliott faces a do-or-die scenario as the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Martinsville Speedway, knowing only a win will keep his playoff bid alive. The pressure is on for Elliott and crew chief Alan Gustafson to deliver an aggressive Chase Elliott Martinsville strategy in hopes of advancing to the Championship 4.
Elliott’s Season on the Brink as Playoff Race Begins
The stakes could not be higher for the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports team, as Elliott enters the pivotal race eighth in the points standings—62 points below the cutoff. With such a deficit, the only viable path is to take the checkered flag at the short track affectionately known as ‘The Paperclip.’ This outcome would extend their title hopes and set up a shot at the championship in Phoenix.
For Elliott and Gustafson, the situation feels reminiscent of their remarkable 2020 run. During that season, they pulled off a dramatic Martinsville victory under similar win-or-bust circumstances, which propelled them into the final round. That momentum ultimately carried Elliott to his first NASCAR Cup Series title at Phoenix. Now, five years removed from that championship moment, the team is eager to recreate their past success in Virginia.
Game Plan: All-In Approach for Martinsville Victory
Facing immense pressure, Gustafson has crafted a race strategy defined by decisive actions and willingness to take calculated risks. Every pit stop, tire selection, and tactical move is made with a singular goal: to put Elliott in position to seize the victory, no matter what form that may take.
Speaking about potential strategies, Gustafson shared his approach, noting the need for adaptability and bold moves in desperate times.
“No, I think you’re going to have to, you know, I mean, if you don’t have a car to win on pace or you don’t have the track position, then certainly you’re going to have to try to do something different to give you an advantage,”
said Alan Gustafson, crew chief.
“So I think, yeah, I mean, that’s really what we try to do every week.”
– Alan Gustafson, crew chief
Gustafson’s comments indicate that unconventional tactics could be in play. The team may look for opportunities such as pitting off-sequence with the leaders, making bold tire changes, or gambling for improved track position as the race progresses. Such decisions, while risky, could transform a solid performance into the must-win outcome they need.
History and Expectations at Martinsville
Martinsville Speedway stands as a symbol of both challenge and opportunity for Elliott. His dramatic 2020 playoff win at this short track remains a highlight of his career, demonstrating his capability to deliver under pressure. However, since claiming the championship, Elliott has faced hurdles—including missing much of the 2023 season due to injury and enduring inconsistent results throughout the current campaign.
This weekend, Elliott and Gustafson face familiar adversity at a place synonymous with clutch performances. With support from Hendrick Motorsports and memories of past glory on their side, their experience could prove invaluable as they pursue another Martinsville triumph.
What Lies Ahead if Elliott Prevails
If Elliott can successfully execute his Martinsville game plan and secure the win, he will clinch a spot in the Championship 4 at Phoenix, keeping his pursuit of a second Cup Series crown alive. The pressure and stakes at Martinsville make it a defining moment for both the driver and crew chief, who are determined to write another dramatic chapter in their playoff journey. Racing fans and the NASCAR Cup Series community will watch closely, waiting to see if bold strategies and composure under fire can once again propel Chase Elliott to victory during this critical stage of the season.
And here's Chase Elliott crew chief Alan Gustafson on strategy in trying to win Martinsville to get into the Champ 4: pic.twitter.com/dOpP0nHHRT
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 26, 2025
