‘ Chase Elliott criticizes NASCAR” Chase Elliott criticizes NASCAR’
The 2020 Cup Series champion Chase Elliott criticized NASCAR for the wet-tire rule. The Georgia-based driver claimed that it should be the team’s call on when to change to wet-weather tires.
To enable drivers to continue racing safely in rain, NASCAR began testing rain tires in 2021. However, these tests were conducted on short tracks with flatter sections. The rule to use wet-weather tires in Cup Series races was introduced in 2023. But much like testing, its use was initially restricted to tracks under a mile in length.
During the USA Today 301 race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on June 23rd, 2024, Chase Elliott voiced his displeasure with the rule regarding wet tires. The #9 driver was not comfortable being on the
rain tires on the quickly-drying surface. However, Elliott was unable to change to slicks immediately, resulting in a compromised race strategy. This caused Elliott to vent his anger on the team radio.
While NASCAR deemed the event a successful one, some drivers including Elliott appealed to make the rule in favor of the teams. Speaking to FOX Sports journalist Bob Pockrass, Elliott said: “Part of the appeal to the NASCAR Cup Series is having freedom to call your race like you want to call it. I just felt like that was totally taken out of the equation last weekend and that was a bummer.”
“But just from my standpoint, it would have been nice to, even if they were going to make you stay on the wet, to at least give you the opportunity to pit or stay out.” (0:25 onwards) A brief look at Chase Elliott’s rain-affected USA Today 301 race.
