Chase Elliott, the 2020 Cup Series champion, recently emphasized how he deals with criticism from outside sources after securing a thrilling win at his hometrack, EchoPark Speedway. Elliott clearly stated that he largely ignores negativity, choosing instead to concentrate on the team members and loyal fans who directly impact his performance on the track.
In a candid interview with the New York Times, Elliott was asked what misconceptions people might have about him. His straightforward response revealed that he is not interested in knowing what others might say, as his main focus is on the relationships with those who support his racing efforts week after week.
“I don’t really ask enough to care to know, honestly — and that’s fine. I’m totally OK with that. You have the folks who are around you — your team and the people you go to battle with each week — and it’s about showing up for them at the end of the day. I have really learned to put less and less stock in that,” Chase Elliott said.
As a seven-time winner of NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver award, Elliott acknowledges the strong base of fans who stand by him through victories and challenges alike. Beyond these supporters, he regards external opinions as background noise and emphasizes focusing on what he can control, both on and off the track.
“You do have some true fans out there who are going to support you and appreciate you on your good days and your bad days. Those folks have got your back all the time. Outside of that, the outside stuff just is what it is. I don’t ask. I just try to do my thing and be me, and to make sure I’m showing up for the folks who show up for me, who are ultimately going to be in your life beyond all this stuff. That’s important to me, and I don’t go too far past that,” Chase Elliott said.
Victory at EchoPark Speedway dedicated to child patient Rhealynn and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
On June 28, Elliott earned his first win of the 2025 season in an exciting final-lap pass against Brad Keselowski at EchoPark Speedway. Driving his #9 NAPA car, Elliott’s victory was especially meaningful because his paint scheme was designed by Rhealynn, a young patient at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. This personal connection added emotional weight to the celebration.
Shortly after the race, Elliott shared a video on X showing Rhealynn greeting him on the frontstretch of EchoPark Speedway, moments after the win. He dedicated the triumph to Rhealynn and all the children receiving care at the hospital, using his platform to highlight their courage and strength.
This victory marked Elliott’s 20th career Cup Series win and made him the 12th different winner so far in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. It was also his second win at his beloved hometrack, reaffirming his strong performance at EchoPark Speedway.
Why Elliott’s approach to criticism matters for his career and fans
Chase Elliott’s approach to dealing with criticism shows a mature perspective that focuses on enduring relationships rather than fleeting opinions. By concentrating on his team and true fans, Elliott maintains the mental clarity required for consistent performance in the high-pressure world of NASCAR. This mindset allows him to stay balanced amid the intense scrutiny that comes with being a top driver.
His dedication to the community, demonstrated by honoring Rhealynn and other young patients, reveals another dimension of his character beyond racing achievements. As Elliott continues the 2025 Cup Series campaign, his ability to block out distractions and focus on meaningful connections could be key to further successes both on and off the track.