Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 8 Days

By Adam Carabine

Counting down the final 30 days to the 2026 Daytona 500, we are looking at last year's Top 30 drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Today's driver: Chase Elliott

Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images

No. 9 Car – Hendrick Motorsports

2025 Stats

Standings	8th
Wins	2
Points	2,325
Stage Points	193
Stage Wins	1
Laps Led	454
Lead Lap Finishes	32 (tied 1st)
Average Finish	12.6
DNFs	3
Races since last win	5

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

Was 2025 the quietest two-win season of Elliott’s career? To be honest, even I had forgotten he won twice last year.  (It was at Atlanta 2 and Kansas for those who also forgot.)  Two wins is nothing to scoff at, but I think Elliott and his rabid fan base demand more of him.  Many would say that anything short of a championship is unsuccessful, but I’ll say he needs to finish in the Top 5 of the points to have a good year.

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

Chase Elliott is certainly capable of winning the championship in 2026.  In fact, I would argue that the new format plays more into his quietly consistent style than any other driver.  While I’m not sure 2026 is the year of Elliott, I think best-case scenario is a dominant championship win for him and the 9 team.

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

I think Elliott finishes near the top of the average finish charts, probably has plenty of laps led, and has a respectable post-season run, but I don’t see him winning this year’s championship.

Bold Prediction?

Chase Elliott wins at a road course this year, breaking his winless streak on road courses in the Next Gen era.