Chase Elliott No 9 Team_ Chase Elliott of Hendrick Motorsports secured a relatively quiet 12th place at Las Vegas Motor Speedway during the Pennzoil 400, marking what many consider the commencement of the “true” 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, following two drafting races.
Reflecting on last year’s performances, Elliott has endured seven consecutive races outside the top 10 and 11 straight races outside the top five. His win drought extends to 37 races, excluding the seven races missed last year due to injury and suspension.
Currently occupying the seventh spot in the point standings after three races, Elliott stands as the sole driver in the top 18 without a single top-10 finish. Meanwhile, two of his teammates, with a combined total of 10 wins last year, have already secured victories.
The 2024 season was anticipated as a potential resurgence for Elliott following the conclusion of several notable streaks last year. However, the streak-ending 2023 season saw him relinquish his lead in consecutive multi-win seasons, consecutive top-10 points finishes, and various playoff round appearances.
Despite modest finishes of 14th and 15th in superspeedway races to kick off the season, interpreting another lackluster result at a “regular” track as a sign for panic for the No. 9 team should be met with a resounding no.
While Elliott’s absence from the top 10 since early October is notable, his worst finish this season, 15th place, is on par with the best worst finish in the series. Additionally, his average finish surpasses that of his teammate and current points leader, Kyle Larson.
It’s worth recalling Elliott’s leadership in the 2022 season, where despite a lack of top-five finishes in the initial races, he ultimately led the series in various categories and secured a Championship 4 appearance.
Presently, Elliott’s performance isn’t a cause for significant concern. While his stats last year may have faltered, his current average finish remains competitive, indicating his proficiency in navigating the modern format.
With seven of Elliott’s 18 career wins coming in the playoffs, including crucial wins in the round of 12 or later, his knack for stepping up when it matters most is undeniable.
While the win drought narrative persists, panic over a 12th-place finish, especially at a track where Elliott has historically struggled, seems premature. Races 27 through 36 are where the real action unfolds, and Elliott’s track record suggests he’s primed to shine when it truly counts.
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Frequently Asked Questions (“FAQ”)
Who is number 9 Elliott?
William Clyde “Chase” Elliott II, born on November 28, 1995, is an American professional stock car racing driver. He competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, steering the No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Hendrick Motorsports.
Who drives the 9 car in Nascar?
Chase Elliott drives the No. 9 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, a car number steeped in family history. This number was famously carried by his father, Bill Elliott, for much of his illustrious career, which ultimately led to his induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
