Chase Elliott may not be the loudest voice in the NASCAR garage, but his quiet determination and strategic approach are making waves as he positions himself for a shot at the championship. Often understated, Elliott’s demeanor mirrors his racing style—focused, deliberate, and often flying under the radar. However, his recent performances have caught the attention of veteran driver Kevin Harvick, who believes this understated approach could be pivotal for Elliott’s 2026 season prospects.
On a recent episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour podcast, the conversation turned to Elliott’s impressive runner-up finish at Las Vegas, with co-host Mamba Smith highlighting the speed demonstrated by the #9 team in the early races of the season. So far, Elliott has secured two top-five finishes, a feat he hasn’t achieved in the first five races since 2021 when he made it to the championship finals, and previously in 2020 when he clinched the title.
However, Harvick provided a counterpoint to Smith’s enthusiasm, emphasizing that Elliott’s success has been more about consistent performance than flashy speeds. “I think that Chase Elliott has been sneaky,” Harvick remarked, underscoring how the unique Chase format could actually enhance Elliott’s performance. He noted that Elliott and crew chief Allen Gustafson excel at salvaging races, often transforming what appears to be a mediocre run into a respectable finish. Harvick pointed out that Elliott’s ability to quietly accumulate points and finishes—without drawing attention—could be an asset as the season progresses.
He cited specific examples, like Kyle Larson’s costly error at Atlanta, contrasting it with Elliott’s ability to avoid similar pitfalls. Harvick stressed the importance of being in the top five when the championship reset occurs, arguing that it’s not just about the points but also about how drivers position themselves for the postseason.
Despite the disappointment of narrowly missing a victory in Las Vegas, where he last won in September of the previous year, Elliott remains optimistic. Reflecting on his performance, he acknowledged the missed opportunity but also recognized the progress his team has made. “I have to kind of bring myself back to a reality check, how much better we ran today than we’ve been running,” Elliott said, balancing his disappointment with the understanding that success in racing is often hard-won.
Elliott described the race as a “really solid day” for his team, expressing a desire to have executed the final laps more effectively. With a renewed focus on the season’s bigger picture, fans are left wondering: could this be the year Chase Elliott adds a second Cup title to his resume? As his quiet ascent continues, all eyes will be on him as the championship chase heats up.
