In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community, Chase Elliott has announced his departure from Hendrick Motorsports, ending a decade-long partnership with the team. The move comes amid escalating tensions within the organization, particularly between Elliott and his teammate Kyle Larson.
The rift between the two drivers has been building over the past few seasons, marked by several on-track incidents and off-track disputes. Notably, during a race at Auto Club Speedway, Larson’s block on Elliott led to the latter’s car being squeezed into the wall, prompting Elliott to express his frustration over the team radio . Further tensions flared during the 2023 season when Elliott confronted Larson on pit road following a late-race incident at Kansas Speedway .
Sources close to the team suggest that Elliott’s decision to leave was influenced by a desire for a fresh start and to escape the shadow of Larson’s dominance within the team. However, the most explosive revelation came from Larson himself. In a candid interview, Larson accused team owner Rick Hendrick of favoring Elliott over him, stating that Hendrick had “always had Elliott’s back” and insinuating that this favoritism had been a source of internal friction
Rick Hendrick has yet to publicly address Larson’s accusations or Elliott’s departure. The NASCAR world is left reeling from these developments, with many questioning the future dynamics at Hendrick Motorsports and the implications for both drivers’ careers.
As the 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on how Hendrick Motorsports navigates this unprecedented upheaval and whether Elliott and Larson can find success in their new endeavors.
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