After each hard-fought victory on the NASCAR circuit, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, and Bubba Wallace share a unique and heartfelt tradition that speaks volumes about their friendship

After each hard-fought victory on the NASCAR circuit, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, and Bubba Wallace share a unique and heartfelt tradition that speaks volumes about their friendship and the bond they’ve forged over years of competition and camaraderie. Regardless of who takes the checkered flag, the trio makes it a point to connect that evening — usually via group video chat — to celebrate in their own private way. The conversation isn’t about stats or strategy; it’s a space to reflect, share laughs, and keep each other grounded.

It started early in their careers, back when victories were rare and moments of celebration even rarer. The tradition began with simple congratulatory texts and evolved into late-night calls filled with jokes, memories, and mutual respect. Sometimes, they toast with a drink; other times, it’s just a few minutes of shared silence and a smile. The ritual reinforces something deeper: while each of them races alone on the track, they are never truly alone in their journey.

This tradition reminds them — and the fans — that behind the fierce rivalries and roaring engines, there’s a human connection built on friendship, support, and the shared highs and lows of their sport. It’s a quiet ritual, not televised or posted on social media, but it holds immense meaning. In a sport known for speed and spectacle, this slow, sincere gesture reveals the heart beneath the helmets — three friends honoring the grind and growth that each win represents.