The countdown to the 2025 NASCAR season is officially underway, and the sport’s stars are immersed in a whirlwind of promotional events, media obligations, and preseason preparations. While these behind-the-scenes activities build excitement for fans, they also test the patience of even the most seasoned drivers.
One such driver, Chase Elliott, couldn’t help but express his eagerness to leave the preseason grind behind and hit the track. In true Elliott fashion, he delivered his thoughts with a mix of humor and candor, further endearing himself to his massive fanbase.
Chase Elliott’s preseason impatience
As NASCAR’s most popular driver, Chase Elliott has long carried the weight of high expectations, both on and off the track. The 2020 Cup Series champion, piloting the No. 9 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, recently shared polished photos from his preseason shoot on Instagram. Alongside the images, he took a sly jab at the off-track obligations, captioning the post, “Can we go racing now?”
The comment highlights Elliott’s growing impatience to return to the action that truly fuels his competitive spirit. After a tumultuous 2023 season, Elliott rebounded in 2024 with significant improvements, making his anticipation for the new season all the more palpable.
A strong 2024 rebound
Elliott’s frustration is likely fueled by the momentum he carries into 2025. Last year, the Hendrick Motorsports star ended a grueling 42-race winless streak with a victory at Texas. He secured seven top-10 finishes during the playoffs and boasted the best average finish in the series at 11.7. Though he narrowly missed the Championship 4, Elliott’s late-season form hinted at a resurgence for the No. 9 team.
Reflecting on his progress, Elliott told Hendrick Motorsports media:
“Honestly, I think from my perspective and where I’m at in my career right now is just trying to get more competitive on a weekly basis.”
While his consistency was commendable, Elliott struggled to win stage points and found himself starting outside the top 10 in nearly half the races. To reassert himself as a championship contender, Elliott will need to address these gaps and deliver more dominant performances throughout the season.
Can Chase Elliott dominate 2025?
Elliott’s performance in 2024 showcased both promise and areas for improvement. While he demonstrated a knack for solid finishes, his total laps led were heavily concentrated in just two playoff races. To return to his championship-winning form, Elliott and the No. 9 team must focus on translating consistency into victories and securing critical stage points.
Despite these challenges, Elliott’s determination and competitive fire remain undeniable. His humorous preseason dig underscores not only his readiness to race but also his growing confidence heading into the new season. With the momentum of a strong 2024 campaign and a fresh slate in 2025, Elliott appears poised to reclaim his spot among NASCAR’s elite.
The question now is whether the fan-favorite driver can capitalize on his progress and convert it into a dominant season. If Elliott’s preseason enthusiasm is any indication, the No. 9 Chevrolet could be one to watch when the green flag drops.
