Chase Elliott remains the darling of Nascariens

The 2020 champion, Chase Elliott, is the fifth driver in the sport to receive this prestigious distinction more than 5 times, joining Richard Petty (8x), Bobby Allison (8x), Dale Earnhardt Jr. (15x) and his own father Bill Elliott (16x).

Bill Elliott, 16 times crowned most popular driver in the NASCAR

This award is in no way trivial since great champions such as Jimmie Johnson or Jeff Gordon have never been distinguished despite their incredible track record. A legend is born on the track, but a career is consolidated with the public. The sale of derivative products also remains an important source of financing for the series and the teams. Whether we love you or hate you, we must not leave you indifferent. Drivers such as Earnhardt Sr., Kyle Busch and Ross Chastain more recently have understood this well by accepting the image of a bad boy fighting virilely against the white knights. In a way these dark heroes that we love to hate so much.

Popularity and speed are therefore the dominant genes among the Elliotts. With 44 victories, two Daytona 500s in 1985 and 1987, and a crown acquired in 1988, Bill Elliott, Chase's father, had succeeded in building an exceptional relationship with the NASCAR community. He also holds two lap speed records with an average of 342,48 km/h at Talladega and 338,55 km/h at Daytona! Named among the 50 greatest drivers in the discipline, he joined the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2015. Previously, in 2005, his native state of Georgia decided to declare October 08 “Bill Elliott Day” in recognition of the influence brought by the driver in the state.

Good American Boy

Chase Elliott therefore follows in his father's footsteps but in a very different style. Nicknamed “Million Dollar Bill”, Bill Elliott liked to make the public dream by communicating extensively about his racing winnings. Another time, other mores. Bill was all humor and good words when Chase was more restrained and concerned with conveying an image of a good boy. However, he never misses an opportunity to be part of the family legacy: “Dad had a great connection with the fans. I view this award as an extension of his career and that of my uncles and grandfather. Kind of a path and work ethic.” Furthermore, Chase Elliott masters the markers of American culture to perfection. Sometimes sporting a cowboy hat, sometimes an Intimidator-style mustache, he doesn't mind taking a break in charming company for his partner Hooters, a themed restaurant chain, and doesn't count his hours on promotions across the continent.

Early champion, the youngest to be drawn into the of automotive equipment which has just renewed its very long-term support, it still has very good pages to write.

Noah Gragson won the Xfinity Series award, dethroning Justin Allgaier, winner of the last three seasons. In the Truck Series, the young and ultra-popular driving prodigy Hailie Deegan retains her position.

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