Hendrick Motorsports, a dominant force in NASCAR, entered the 2025 Cup Series season with strong potential as William Byron and Kyle Larson led the team at the top of the points standings. However, the season quickly took a troubling turn when Chase Elliott, despite holding fourth place overall, failed to secure any wins or stage victories, consistently finishing outside the top 20. Meanwhile, Alex Bowman’s performance remained erratic, with a surprising top-five finish in Mexico City standing out in an otherwise disappointing run.

Qualifying Struggles and a High-Risk Decision at Pocono Raceway

Pocono Raceway became the focal point of Hendrick Motorsports’ difficulties, marking their worst season start in seven years. During qualifying, William Byron endured a severe crash that badly damaged his No. 24 car, threatening his chances of a strong starting position. Rather than switching to a backup vehicle, the team opted to aggressively repair the primary car to keep it race-ready, making a daring bet on its restored capabilities.

This choice to rely on the repaired primary car under tight time constraints is a significant gamble. Byron will need to contend with heavy traffic and trust that the car’s handling and aerodynamics remain intact after repairs—a critical consideration on a challenging track like Pocono. Any unresolved damage could impair the car’s performance, drastically affecting Byron’s race outcome.

Teamwide Qualifying Challenges Reflect Growing Pressure

Hendrick Motorsports’ qualifying struggles extended beyond Byron. Chase Elliott encountered his own setbacks, resulting in an 18th-place start on the grid. Notably, all four Hendrick drivers began the race near the back of the field, an unprecedented low since 2018 for one of NASCAR’s powerhouse teams. This collective qualifying disappointment has intensified concerns within the organization over the team’s current form.

Implications for the Season and Team Morale

The upcoming races are critical for Hendrick Motorsports as the team attempts to reverse its fortunes. William Byron, in particular, faces a make-or-break moment, with his performance at Pocono carrying significant weight for the season’s trajectory. The strategic decision to forgo a backup car underscores the risks the team is willing to take to regain competitiveness amid mounting pressure.

Amid the uncertainty, Chase Elliott’s outlook reveals the resilience within Hendrick Motorsports. Despite the recent disappointments, Elliott’s grounded and determined mindset exemplifies a champion ready to confront challenges head-on. This spirit of perseverance offers a beacon of hope as the team looks to overcome adversity and strive toward a stronger finish in the 2025 campaign.