Chase Elliott denies Denny Hamlin shock – Sports News
Chase Elliott has retained his standing as essentially the most beloved NASCAR Cup Series driver, thereby crushing Denny Hamlin’s long-shot hope of incomes the title.
At Tuesday night time’s NASCAR Awards Banquet, Elliott earned his eighth consecutive Cup Series NMPA (National Motorsports Press Association) Most Popular Driver Award, which is set every year by way of a fan vote. The No. 9 Chevrolet driver narrowly edged out fellow finalists Kyle Larson, Ryan Blaney, Ross Chastain, and Hamlin, who conceded that he was “shocked” to even be within the working for the accolade.
“I don’t know that I’ve ever been in the top 10. So, that in itself was quite a shock,” Hamlin instructed reporters forward of the Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway, which resulted in agony for the 44-year-old as soon as a late warning erased his comfy lead. “So, yeah, I don’t know what’s changed, but I certainly do appreciate it.”
Though Hamlin’s villainous persona and aggressive driving type have ruffled feathers at occasions, Elliott virtually instantly endeared himself to followers and drivers alike upon reaching the Cup Series back in 2015. In the historical past of the Cup Series, solely Bill Elliott (16), Dale Earnhardt Jr. (15), and Richard Petty (9) have been named the Most Popular Driver more than him.
While addressing his newest triumph in a temporary clip posted to X, Elliott asserted that the help he receives from followers stretches far past the Awards Banquet vote. “Thank you for the votes. Thank you for taking the time out of your day to do that and support us in that way and support me in that way,” he started.
“But man, it’s so much more than the votes and I tell a lot of people this that I talk to about it, but just it’s really about the people and the support that I get to see firsthand.
“And I know not everybody has that vantage point or that perspective, but it truly is incredible. And every year it blows me away to travel to parts of the country that you would never think that people are that passionate about what we’re doing.
“And I just want to make sure everyone understands that I’m forever grateful for that, whether we win the award or don’t win the award. I think I have some of the best fans in the world and really appreciate you guys supporting me and pushing us and wanting the best for our team and being there on the good days and the bad.”
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While his 2025 marketing campaign didn’t go as he finally would’ve hoped — Elliott didn’t handle to qualify for the Championship 4 following a third-place end at Martinsville Speedway — the 29-year-old promised to ship a higher end result to followers subsequent season.
“So I know this year had a few high spots, but I’m always looking to bring you guys more,” he continued.
“I always want to give you guys something to be proud of each and every week. And while I am looking forward to some time away, I’m also fired up and excited to do more of that for you next year and to give you guys more to root for and pull for. And I think our team is in a great spot and I’m looking forward to firing back off next season.”
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