Chase Elliott has secured the NASCAR Cup Series Most Valuable Driver award for the eighth year in a row, continuing a legacy of popularity that echoes his father Bill Elliott, who has won the honor 16 times. At 29 years old, Chase remains a fan favorite, a distinction shared by only two drivers in the past 23 years, with Dale Earnhardt Jr. holding the award for 15 consecutive years before retiring in 2017.
Although Elliott did not make it to the championship round of the playoffs and therefore did not attend the year-end awards event, he expressed heartfelt thanks to his supporters. He emphasized that the award represents more than just a vote—it’s about the connection and backing from fans across the country, some from places unexpected to be so passionate about NASCAR.
Elliott, the 2020 Cup champion, currently stands eighth in the 2025 rankings with two wins. This prestigious award is managed by the Motorsports Writers Association of America and is among the oldest in NASCAR, with Internet voting determining the winner. The other top contenders included Ryan Blaney, Ross Chastain, Denny Hamlin, and Kyle Larson.
Fan Take: Chase Elliott’s continued recognition as the Most Valuable Driver underscores the deep-rooted loyalty and enthusiasm that NASCAR fans have for him, highlighting the sport’s rich family traditions and ongoing appeal. This sustained fan support can help maintain NASCAR’s popularity and inspire new generations of drivers and followers.
