NASCAR BOMBSHELL: Rick Hendrick Reveals Critical News About Chase Elliott That Could Change His Future With Hendrick Motorsports in 2026
The Face of Hendrick… at a Crossroads?
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR garage, Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick has revealed a major development regarding the future of Chase Elliott, the 2020 Cup Series Champion and arguably the sport’s most popular driver. In a press conference held at Pocono Raceway ahead of this weekend’s race, Hendrick hinted that Elliott’s role with the team in 2025 is “not guaranteed”—raising eyebrows across the paddock.
“We’re looking at everything right now,” Hendrick said when asked about Elliott’s long-term contract status. “Chase is family, but at this level, performance matters. Every seat has to be earned—every year.”
A Tumultuous Season Behind the #9 Car
Elliott’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. After returning from a rough 2024 campaign plagued by inconsistency and injury, expectations were sky-high. But through the first half of the season, the No. 9 team has underperformed, with only one top-5 finish and multiple disappointing showings at tracks where Elliott once dominated.
Sources inside Hendrick Motorsports suggest that internal discussions about the future of the No. 9 car began as early as mid-June, especially after young driver Sammy Smith impressed during a test session at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Is Hendrick Preparing for a Youth Movement?
Hendrick has already locked in Kyle Larson and William Byron for multi-year extensions. With Alex Bowman’s seat also in question, rumors are swirling that the team may be preparing for a generational transition—possibly eyeing up-and-coming stars from Xfinity or even outside the NASCAR bubble.
Elliott, still only 29, is far from washed up—but team executives are reportedly frustrated with a lack of chemistry between Elliott and crew chief Alan Gustafson. A shakeup may come in the form of either a leadership change or, in a more dramatic scenario, a complete driver swap.
Chase Responds: “I’m Not Going Anywhere—Unless They Push Me”
When approached for comment, Elliott responded candidly:
“I’ve given everything to this team and to this sport. If Rick thinks I’m not the guy anymore, that’s his call—but I still believe I’ve got championships left in me. I’m not going anywhere… unless they push me.”
Fans immediately took to social media to show support for Elliott, with hashtags like #KeepChase and #ElliottForever trending within hours of the press conference.
What’s Next?
While no official decision has been made, Rick Hendrick made it clear that “changes are coming” in 2025. Whether that means a new crew chief, a renewed commitment to Elliott, or an unexpected parting of ways remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on Pocono—and on whether Elliott can prove he still belongs in one of the most coveted rides in the sport.
Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop. One thing is certain: the future of Chase Elliott—and possibly Hendrick Motorsports—hangs in the balance.
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