Chase Elliott has been in excellent form in the last six races of the season.
Hendrick Motorsports’ entered the 2024 season seeking redemption from the winless 2023 season, which was his worst period ever. After a challenging start, the No:9 Chevy team made gradual progress, before returning to victory lane at Texas Motor Speedway. He has been performing well since the win, with two top 5 finishes in the last three races.
At Kansas on Sunday, where there was a historic 0.001 second finish between the winner and the runner-up, the No:9 Chevy driver was also involved in a close finish. Chase Elliott was battling for P3 with a driver from Joe Gibbs Racing, who had one of the fastest cars of the day. The HMS driver came out ahead with the help of his aggressive defending. It also benefited Larson, as Elliott disrupted Truex Jr.’s momentum.
Reflecting on his finish via X, the 2020 Cup champion pointed out that if the team can continue to produce fast cars like on Sunday, it won’t be long before he returns to victory lane. The post has boosted the confidence of Elliott fans as it has given them more hope for the upcoming races.
P3 in Kansas yesterday. We’ll surely bring home another checkered flag if we keep delivering performances like that💪🏼 #di9 pic.twitter.com/d8N6zvKOiy
After the race at Kansas, Hendrick Motorsports revealed the significant role the crew chiefs of the No:5 and No:9 teams play during pit-stops. They not only guide the drivers safely out of the pits but also contribute to the tire changing process.
At the No:9 team, one crew member is responsible for holding the left rear tire and passing it to the rear-tier carrier once they have finished changing the right-rear tire. Another crew member is responsible for passing out the left front tire.
Gustafson and Daniels have played a major role in the success of their drivers during their stints at HMs. Their direct involvement in pit-stops, rather than just sitting in the booth, also serves as a confidence booster for the team.