Chase Elliott explains reclaiming his father’s legacy after No. 24 switch

Chase Elliott has opened up about the decision to walk away from the legendary No. 24 car, a move that let him forge his own path while honoring his father’s Hall of Fame career.

What happened?

On 18 July 2026, Chase Elliott confirmed he intentionally stepped away from the No. 24 to break free from comparisons to his father, Bill Elliott, the 1988 Cup Series champion. The younger Elliott had driven the iconic number since joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2016, but this year he moved to the No. 9 car. He told reporters the change was about more than just a number-it was about owning his own identity in the sport.

Why it matters for Chase Elliott

The No. 24 has been tied to Bill Elliott’s 1985 Cup title and 44 career wins, including the 1988 Daytona 500. By leaving it behind, Chase Elliott said he could finally step out from under that shadow. He admitted the move wasn’t easy, but he felt it was necessary to define his own legacy. The shift also came as he chased his first Cup championship since 2020, a title that has eluded him despite multiple playoff runs.

What comes next?

Chase Elliott will keep racing in the No. 9 for Hendrick Motorsports, aiming to close the gap in the 2026 standings. He’s currently 12th in points after 18 races, eight spots behind series leader Kyle Larson. The team’s focus remains on consistency, not just speed. With the playoffs looming, every top-10 finish counts more than ever.

The bigger picture

Chase Elliott’s choice reflects a growing trend among young stars to break from family expectations. It’s a rare moment where a driver openly discusses legacy over results. The move also puts extra pressure on him to deliver in the No. 9, a car he’s now tied to for the foreseeable future. For fans, it’s a chance to see Elliott race without the weight of history holding him back.