The NASCAR world is reeling today after an absolutely shocking announcement: Chase Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion and long-time fan favorite, is officially parting ways with Hendrick Motorsports, ending a decade-long partnership that many believed would last his entire career.
What makes this story even more explosive? Kyle Larson, his teammate and fellow star driver at Hendrick, has publicly blamed team owner Rick Hendrick for the sudden exit — sparking widespread controversy and sending shockwaves throughout the sport.
The Bombshell Announcement
The bombshell dropped earlier this morning when Hendrick Motorsports released a brief and carefully worded statement confirming Elliott’s departure at the end of the 2024 season:
“After careful discussions, Hendrick Motorsports and Chase Elliott have mutually agreed to part ways. We thank Chase for his incredible contributions and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Fans were quick to point out the lack of detail — especially given Elliott’s enormous popularity and brand power. Within minutes, speculation ran wild online.
Kyle Larson Speaks Out
But things truly erupted when Kyle Larson broke the silence in a post-race interview at Martinsville:
“Honestly, this didn’t need to happen. Chase is one of the best drivers in the garage, and if the team had supported him better, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. I think Rick [Hendrick] let this one get away.”
The comments stunned reporters and fans alike. While tension between Elliott and Larson has occasionally surfaced on track, few expected such a direct shot at the team’s legendary owner.
Larson’s comments suggest internal conflict at Hendrick Motorsports that had been brewing under the surface — possibly involving disagreements over car setups, crew changes, or even contract negotiations.
Behind the Scenes Friction?
Insiders now claim the tension between Elliott and team management has been mounting since last season. According to one anonymous source close to the team:
“Chase felt like he wasn’t being heard. Decisions were being made without his input — changes to crew chiefs, sponsorship deals, even the car’s design philosophy. He stayed quiet for a while, but it all built up.”
It’s believed that Elliott’s recent string of underwhelming results, compounded by injury setbacks and on-track incidents, may have led Hendrick officials to start focusing more resources on Larson’s car — a shift that didn’t sit well with the No. 9 driver.
What’s Next for Chase?
Now that Elliott is leaving one of the most dominant teams in NASCAR, all eyes turn to where he might land.
Early rumors link him to Trackhouse Racing or even a surprise move to Joe Gibbs Racing, where his marketability and road-course prowess could shine. Others speculate he might partner with Dale Earnhardt Jr. in expanding JR Motorsports to a full-time Cup Series program.
Regardless, Elliott won’t be short of offers. With a loyal fanbase and a still-strong racing resume, he remains one of the sport’s biggest assets.
NASCAR Community Reacts
Social media is ablaze. Fans of Elliott are expressing a mix of sadness, outrage, and hope. One fan wrote:
“Chase carried Hendrick through some rough years. Can’t believe they let him walk.”
Meanwhile, NASCAR analysts are calling Larson’s comments “career-defining.”
Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass tweeted:
“Larson calling out Rick Hendrick publicly? That’s something you just don’t see. Major rift inside HMS, no doubt.”
Final Thoughts
This shocking development could reshape the entire NASCAR landscape heading into 2025. With one of its biggest stars on the move, a fractured Hendrick team, and outspoken drivers turning on leadership, the Cup Series just got a lot more unpredictable.
The silence from Rick Hendrick himself is only fueling the fire. Fans and media alike await his response — and Elliott’s next move — as this story continues to unfold.
