Chase Elliott has solidified his status as a fan favorite by winning the NMPA Most Popular Driver award for the eighth year in a row, further elevating his profile in the NASCAR world. The Chase Elliott Most Popular Driver title was announced at the latest Awards banquet, putting Elliott just behind NASCAR legend Richard Petty, who holds nine such honors.
Elliott’s Enduring Popularity Among NASCAR Fans
The voting for this year’s award saw Chase Elliott outpace fellow top contenders Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, Ross Chastain, and Ryan Blaney. Garnering 56% of fan votes from across the globe, Elliott demonstrated his wide-reaching appeal and connection with NASCAR enthusiasts everywhere.
Reflecting on the remarkable support, Elliott addressed his followers in a heartfelt post, openly expressing gratitude for the unwavering fanbase that stands by him each season:
“Thank you for the votes. Thank you for taking the time out of your day and supporting us in that way and supporting me in that way. I tell a lot of people this that I talk to about it, it’s really about the people and the support that I get to see firsthand and I know not everybody has that vantage point or that perspective, but it truly is incredible and every year, it blows me away to travel to parts of the country that you would never think people are that passionate about what we’re doing.”
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
“I want to make sure everyone understands that I’m forever grateful for that. Whether we win the award or don’t win the award, I think I have some of the best fans in the world and I really appreciate you guys supporting me and pushing us and wanting the best for our team and being there on the good days and the bad.”
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Beyond the fan recognition, Elliott also emphasized the role of supporters in both his highs and lows during the racing season. His deep appreciation for fans has been evident throughout his career, enhancing his reputation both on and off the track.
Record-Breaking Streak and NASCAR History
Chase Elliott entered elite company with his eighth consecutive Most Popular Driver award win, joining only four other drivers in Cup Series history to achieve more than five such honors. Bill Elliott, Chase’s father, leads the record books with a staggering sixteen awards, followed by Dale Earnhardt Jr. with fifteen, Richard Petty with eight, and Bobby Allison with six. Elliott now sits just one award short of tying Petty’s tally, underlining his growing influence within NASCAR’s highest ranks.
His steadfast commitment to Rick Hendrick’s renowned organization, Hendrick Motorsports, remains a focal point as he reflects on another intense racing year and sets sights on what’s next.
Highs and Lows from the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Season
The 2025 season brought opportunities and setbacks for Elliott. He clinched a spot in the playoffs with a powerful victory at Atlanta Motor Speedway, then locked in his place in the Round of 8 after another win at Kansas. However, the penultimate race at Martinsville saw Elliott fall short of qualifying for the Championship 4, missing the chance to compete for the Cup title at Phoenix.
Speaking candidly about the experience, Elliott stated:
“Left it all out on the track yesterday and came up just short. It stings, but I’m damn proud of our 9 group for bringing it all season long! That’s all you can ask for. We’ll shoot for one more at Phoenix. I appreciate y’all’s support this year 👊🏼 #di9”
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Champion
Despite Elliott’s playoff exit, his Hendrick Motorsports teammates Kyle Larson and William Byron continued the fight, with Larson ultimately capturing his second Cup Series championship at Phoenix. This triumph marked the fifteenth Cup Series victory for the Hendrick organization and continued its tradition of excellence in the sport.
Looking Forward: Elliott Sets Sights on Future Success
Chase Elliott’s Most Popular Driver recognition highlights his established legacy, commitment to his team, and dedication to supporters spanning the NASCAR community. With another season behind him and momentum building, Elliott remains poised to chase further milestones and possibly join or surpass Richard Petty’s record. The intense energy, optimism, and unwavering passion from Elliott and his fans are sure to shape the next chapter of his career and keep him prominent among motorsport’s top personalities.
Thank you to all the fans who voted for me as the 2025 NASCAR Most Popular Driver! I don’t take this award lightly and truly appreciate all the support each and every one of you shows to me and my family. pic.twitter.com/dhp2souftE
— Chase Elliott (@chaseelliott) November 5, 2025
