Chase Elliott steps in for Kyle Busch at North Wilkesboro with win in sight

Chase Elliott to race at North Wilkesboro in place of Kyle Busch on 18 Jun

Chase Elliott will take the wheel of the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet at North Wilkesboro Speedway on 18 Jun after Kyle Busch pulled out of the event. Elliott called the opportunity “a cool deal” and vowed to push for the win in Busch’s honor.

What happened?

Elliott confirmed his late swap into the No. 9 seat for the North Wilkesboro race. The Hendrick team announced Busch’s exit on 17 Jun, leaving the seat open for Elliott, who was already at the track. “I’d love to go win for him,” Elliott told reporters on pit lane.

Why it matters for Chase Elliott

The move keeps the No. 9 in the hunt at a historic short track where Busch has been a regular threat. Elliott has two career top-10s at North Wilkesboro, but no wins. A victory would mark his first at the 0.625-mile oval and hand Busch a morale boost despite his absence.

What comes next?

Elliott will inherit Busch’s qualifying time and pit stall. Crew chief Greg Ives has 24 hours to dial in the car for Elliott’s style. The field includes William Byron (No. 24) and Denny Hamlin (No. 11), both chasing stage wins on 18 Jun.