Chase Elliott, former NASCAR Cup Series champion, recently discussed his views on role models in the sport, highlighting Jimmie Johnson as the epitome of a NASCAR role model for young fans and aspiring racers. Drawing on his own experiences and achievements in the sport, Elliott shared insights into what makes Johnson a standout figure in the racing community.
Jimmie Johnson’s Racing Legacy Inspires Elliott
During an interview with stock car analyst Jeff Gluck in 2014, Chase Elliott reflected on the influence of legendary driver Jimmie Johnson, noting his impressive career and integrity both on and off the track. Johnson began his Cup Series journey in 2001 with Hendrick Motorsports behind the wheel of the #48 Chevrolet. Over his career, he tallied 83 wins, 232 top-five finishes, 374 top-ten placements, and took the pole position 35 times across 686 starts. Johnson’s historic record includes matching Richard Petty’s seven Cup Series championships, further solidifying his legacy as one of NASCAR’s elite drivers.
Elliott had the opportunity to compete as Johnson’s teammate at Hendrick Motorsports, witnessing his dedication and professionalism firsthand. In his conversation with Gluck via USAtoday.com, Elliott named Johnson as the ideal role model for kids, emphasizing the consistency and excellence Johnson brought to each race.
“Obviously, I point to Jimmie (Johnson) a lot. It’s hard to not strive to be like that guy. He does everything right, you know? He’s successful on and off the racetrack, and he gets the job done every week, no matter what track we’re going to.”
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Even after stepping away from full-time NASCAR competition, Johnson’s winning spirit led him to participate in other premier events, such as the IndyCar Series, IMSA SportsCar Championship, 24 Hours of Daytona, and Le Mans 24 Hours. His eventual move back to the Cup Series—this time as a part-time driver for Legacy Motor Club piloting the #84 Toyota—showcased his enduring passion for racing.
Elliott Celebrates His Pit Crew’s Outstanding Performance
After the close of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, Chase Elliott’s #9 Hendrick Motorsports crew was recognized as the Most Valuable Pit Crew by Mechanix Wear. The honor underscored the team’s efficient pit road work throughout the high-stakes season, particularly during the post-season.
Mechanix Wear’s selection process focuses on several playoff metrics, including pit stop speed, positions gained or lost, and the overall capability and teamwork displayed by the group. The #9 Chevy team consistently excelled in these areas, elevating Elliott’s performance during crucial moments of the championship.
The pit crew’s dedication played a significant role in keeping Elliott in the chase for the championship, contributing to his continued competitiveness throughout the season. Reflecting on their impact, Elliott shared his appreciation with HendrickMotorsports.com:
“I’m extremely proud of our whole group. They did an exceptional job all year, and I’ve touched on how impressed I was at Phoenix and the drive to want to continue to work hard and lay it all out there, even though we weren’t in the playoffs.”
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
“They just had an incredible performance on pit road and an amazing way to cap off the season. I’m extremely grateful for their attitudes, their approach, how they pick me up when I’m down, or whatever it takes; they’re willing to rise to the occasion,” he added.
— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series Driver
Elliott’s 2025 Season and the Road Ahead
Throughout the 2025 season, Chase Elliott advanced through three rounds of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, despite ultimately not securing a spot in the Championship 4 race. Elliott closed out the year eighth in the overall standings, amassing 2,310 points and celebrating notable wins at Atlanta Motor Speedway and Kansas Speedway over the course of 36 starts.
His achievements—supported by a high-performing pit crew and the inspiration drawn from icons such as Jimmie Johnson—highlight Elliott’s role not only as a competitor but also as a mentor and positive presence within NASCAR. As fans and fellow racers look ahead, Elliott’s commitment to excellence and his emphasis on teamwork hint at continued strong performances in the seasons to come.
