Ross Chastain’s rise in NASCAR racing career began in an unusual way when Chip Ganassi gave him a chance to drive for his team after a sponsor’s recommendation. In 2017, Jeff Carpoff, owner of DC Solar, noticed Chastain’s determination and racing talent while the driver was working on a bus between sessions. Impressed with Chastain’s ability to outperform his equipment, Carpoff convinced Ganassi to let Chastain compete in several races.
Chastain wasted no time proving his worth, pushing his car to the front in his very first race and competing closely with veteran driver Kevin Harvick. Ganassi was impressed enough to extend his commitment to Chastain for the 2018 season. This marked a turning point in Chastain’s career as he transitioned from a part-time opportunist to a serious contender in NASCAR.
“We’re putting him in the car because we think he can win races and compete for the championship. I want to thank Jeff Carpoff for pushing me to hire him. I probably could not have pointed Ross out of all the women and him. Before Jeff pushed me into trying this guy out, I repeatedly told Jeff that he didn’t know what he was talking about and to leave the drivers to me,” Chip Ganassi said (via ISM Raceway Media Center).
After initially joining Chip Ganassi Racing for selected events, Ross Chastain secured a full-time seat driving the No. 42 car in the NASCAR Cup Series by 2021, solidifying his position as a competitive force in the sport.
Ross Chastain’s Reflection on a Teammate Collision at Sonoma
In a recent NASCAR Cup Series race at Sonoma Raceway, Ross Chastain was involved in a collision with his teammate Daniel Suarez that affected both drivers’ standings. The incident, which occurred at turn 11, caused significant setbacks for the Trackhouse Racing duo and sparked considerable discussion among fans while Chastain initially remained silent in the media.
This week, Chastain broke his silence, admitting fault for the crash and apologizing directly to Suarez and the team. His candid acknowledgment of the mistake highlighted the tension yet professionalism between the teammates.
“I do have to talk about spinning my teammate. It’s bad. It’s really bad. I’ve already apologized to him, and I am sorry to the #99 group. Daniel and I had a good conversation. But ultimately doesn’t take back the fact that I wrecked him. So those are never easy to talk about,” Chastain said (via the Like A Farmer podcast).
Both Chastain and Suarez will compete again at the upcoming Brickyard 400, held at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, aiming to recover lost ground in the NASCAR Cup Series rankings, where Chastain sits 12th and Suarez 29th.
The Bold Decision’s Long-Term Impact on NASCAR and Chastain’s Career
Chip Ganassi’s decision to listen to his sponsor and take a chance on Ross Chastain significantly altered the driver’s trajectory in NASCAR. From uncertain beginnings to competing at the front of the field and earning a full-time ride, Chastain’s journey exemplifies how opportunity combined with talent can change a racing career. His recent challenges and willingness to own mistakes demonstrate the resilience required to succeed at the highest level.
As the season progresses, Chastain’s results and conduct behind the wheel will be closely watched, especially as he aims to climb higher in the NASCAR Cup Series standings and contend for victories under Ganassi’s banner.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Ross Chastain hit the wall?
A. Later in the same race, Chastain collided with Chase Elliott, which caused Elliott to spin out. When the race restarted, Elliott pushed Chastain toward the wall, and Hamlin expressed his frustration by making a very close pass. Chastain admitted his mistakes, saying, “I overdid it many times.”
Q. What is the Ross Chastain rule?
A. On Tuesday, NASCAR revealed several rule updates for the 2023 season. Among them, one stands out significantly. They introduced a rule banning the exciting wall-riding move that Ross Chastain used in the “Hail Melon” event last autumn at Martinsville.