**🚨 NASCAR Confirmed: Chase Elliott Decides to Make Major Career Move — Fans in Shock! \[Read More]**
In a development that has stunned the NASCAR community, **Chase Elliott**, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series Champion and one of the sport’s most popular drivers, has officially **confirmed a major decision** that could shift the course of his racing career — and perhaps even the future of Hendrick Motorsports.
### 🔥 Breaking: Elliott Confirms Bold Move
Sources close to Elliott and NASCAR executives have confirmed that **Chase Elliott has decided to take an indefinite leave from full-time racing** starting at the end of the 2025 season. The 29-year-old star cited a combination of **mental health, long-term physical well-being, and family priorities** as key reasons for this shocking step.
> “After a lot of thought and deep conversations with my family and my team at Hendrick Motorsports, I’ve made the decision to step away from full-time racing — at least for now. This sport means the world to me, but I need to reset and refocus,” Elliott said in a heartfelt press conference from Dawsonville, Georgia.
### 💬 Fan Reaction: Outpouring of Support — and Heartbreak
The news has ignited a firestorm across social media. While some fans expressed deep sadness and disbelief, many others rallied around Elliott, praising him for putting his health and happiness first.
* *”Chase has given us so many unforgettable moments. We love you, #9!”* one fan wrote on Twitter.
* *”Mental health matters. Take all the time you need, champ,”* another added.
### 📉 What It Means for Hendrick Motorsports
Team owner Rick Hendrick responded to the announcement with a mix of disappointment and respect:
> “We support Chase 100%. He’s earned the right to make this decision for himself. Of course, we’ll miss seeing him compete weekly, but his well-being comes first.”
Hendrick Motorsports is now reportedly evaluating **potential replacements or part-time fill-ins** for the No. 9 car — with names like **Josh Berry**, **Carson Hocevar**, and even **Noah Gragson** floating around as possible candidates.
### 🏁 Elliott’s Career So Far: A Legacy in Progress
Since debuting in the Cup Series in 2016, Elliott has become one of NASCAR’s brightest stars:
* **2020 NASCAR Cup Series Champion**
* **18 Cup Series wins** (and counting)
* **Most Popular Driver** for six consecutive years
* Known for his **road course dominance** and aggressive yet calculated driving style
### 🤔 What’s Next for Chase Elliott?
While he emphasized he’s *not retiring*, Elliott was vague about his future plans:
> “I’m not closing any doors. I love racing and I’ll be back in some way — maybe part-time, maybe something different. But right now, I need to focus on myself and my family.”
Speculation is swirling that Elliott could:
* Transition to **part-time racing** in select Cup, Xfinity, or even Late Model events
* Explore **off-track roles**, such as team ownership, broadcasting, or mentoring younger drivers
* Return in 2027 or beyond if and when he feels ready
### 💡 The Bigger Picture
Elliott’s decision follows a recent trend of high-profile drivers choosing to prioritize **mental wellness and life balance** over the grind of year-round competition. It adds to a growing conversation within NASCAR about **burnout, schedule overload, and long-term driver sustainability**.
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**🚨 Stay Tuned for More Updates!**
This story is still developing. More statements from Hendrick Motorsports, fellow drivers, and NASCAR officials are expected in the coming days. Meanwhile, fans everywhere are preparing to say “see you later” — but not goodbye — to one of the most beloved racers of the modern era.
🔗 \[Click here to read the full story and reactions] (link not real)
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Would you like a follow-up story on his potential replacements or rea
ctions from other drivers like Kyle Larson or Denny Hamlin?
