In the contemporary epoch of NASCAR, Chase Elliott has earned quite a reputation for his prowess on road courses, securing an impressive tally of seven victories in his career. That said, even with such an impressive record, he doesn’t yet hold the crown as the sport’s road course king. That honor belongs to his predecessor at Hendrick Motorsports, Jeff Gordon, who boasts nine road course wins. Not far behind is Tony Stewart, occupying the second position with eight victories.
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This week’s race at the Sonoma Raceway offers Elliott a tantalizing opportunity. If he manages to secure a victory, he could tie Stewart, ascending one rung higher on the ladder of road course supremacy.
Chase Elliott attempts to inch closer toward the Road Course King’s achievement
But such a feat will not be easily achieved, given the recent setbacks Elliott has faced. Considering his recent leg injury, along with a dip in his overall form since his comeback there seem to be considerable obstacles for the 2020 Cup Series champion. Winning the race will certainly require all of his skill, determination, and a touch of racing luck as well.
More road courses have been added to the #NASCAR schedule since they retired, but @JeffGordonWeb and @TonyStewart remain the kings. 👑 pic.twitter.com/5ggwlcyCX7
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) June 9, 2023
However, should he pull off a victory, it would not only signify a massive return to form but also a significant step towards etching his name deeper into NASCAR history. Elliott already has more road-course wins than some of the elite names such as Darrell Waltrip, Ricky Rudd, Tim Richmond, Rusty Wallace, and several more.
So will he surge ahead, overcoming adversity and claiming his rightful place among the pantheon of NASCAR’s road course greats? Only the winding curves and high-speed straights of Sonoma Raceway hold the answer.
Hendrick Motorsports insider touches on Chase Elliott’s dwindling road course performances
Touching back on the topic of Elliott’s road course performance. It’s true that he is good at them, but he hasn’t been in top form in recent times. This was also pointed out by former Hendrick Motorsports insider and broadcaster, Steve Letarte.
During an episode of his podcast, Steve Letarte stated, “So Chase was a road course machine for a long time but then it kind of dwindled. So how does the predictor still have him up top? You gotta sell me something there professor. He’s even money for a top 5…”
His subtle hint that Elliott could be considered for the top 5s may have been a more realistic projection. However, at the end of the day, everything about racing and its outcome involves some degree of luck. So if things work out and luck aids Elliott, maybe he can finally begin his charge for the championship from Sonoma.
