** BREAKING NEWS: NASCAR Confirms Major Update as Chase Elliott Announces Stunning Decision **
In a development that has stunned fans and sent shockwaves across the motorsports world, **NASCAR has officially confirmed** that **Chase Elliott**, one of the sport’s biggest stars and most beloved drivers, has made a **career-defining announcement**.
Speaking at an emotional press conference held earlier today at Hendrick Motorsports headquarters in Charlotte, Elliott stood before a packed room of reporters and team members and shared the news himself — a moment that will be remembered as a turning point in modern NASCAR history.
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### ️ CHASE ELLIOTT: “THIS ISN’T GOODBYE — IT’S A NEW BEGINNING”
Choking back emotion, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series Champion addressed the media:
> “After a lot of thought, reflection, and conversations with my family, my team, and the people I trust most — I’ve made the decision that it’s time for a new chapter in my life. This isn’t a retirement. It’s a redirection. I’m stepping away from full-time racing after this season.”
> “NASCAR has been my home since I was a kid. I’ve lived this life, loved this life — and now, I’m ready to grow in other ways.”
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### ⛔️ A SHOCK TO THE SPORT
Elliott, 29, is the face of Hendrick Motorsports and one of the sport’s most recognizable and marketable figures. The son of Hall of Famer Bill Elliott, Chase has carried the weight of family legacy while forging his own path — winning fans over with his humility, competitive fire, and clutch performances.
His announcement comes as a **massive surprise**, especially with the 2025 season still ongoing and Elliott sitting 7th in the current Cup Series standings.
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### WHAT’S NEXT FOR CHASE?
Though Elliott stopped short of confirming a complete retirement, he hinted at a shift in priorities:
* **“I want to explore other forms of racing”** — including potential ventures into IMSA, Formula E, or even dirt track and endurance racing.
* He also mentioned a desire to **“focus more on life outside the track,”** including time with family and personal projects.
* Sources say Elliott may also pursue opportunities in **broadcasting, motorsports mentorship**, or team ownership.
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### NASCAR & HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS RESPOND
**NASCAR President Steve Phelps** released an official statement shortly after the announcement:
> “Chase Elliott is one of the brightest stars our sport has ever seen. While we’re saddened to see him step back from full-time competition, we respect his decision and are grateful for everything he’s brought to the NASCAR community. The door is always open.”
**Rick Hendrick**, visibly emotional at the press conference, said:
> “Chase has been more than a driver — he’s been family. Whatever he chooses to do next, we’ll support him 100%. He’s left an incredible mark on Hendrick Motorsports and the sport as a whole.”
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### FANS REACT: “THE END OF AN ERA”
Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement:
@NascarFandom99:
> “I’m in shock. Chase Elliott leaving full-time racing? He’s the reason I became a fan.”
@GeorgiaRacingSoul:
> “We watched him grow from Bill’s kid to a legend in his own right. Chase, you’ll always be our champion.”
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### FINAL RACES & LEGACY MOMENTS
Elliott confirmed he will **complete the remainder of the 2025 season**, with special fan appreciation events, tributes, and farewell races already being planned.
His Cup Series stats as of today:
* **18 career wins**
* **2020 NASCAR Cup Champion**
* **13-time Most Popular Driver (2012–2024)**
* **Over 100 top-ten finishes**
Many fans are already calling for NASCAR to **name a race or award** in his honor.
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### ✨ “I’M NOT DONE — I’M JUST EVOLVING.”
Elliott closed his statement with a message to fans:
> “Thank you. For the cheers, the boos, the messages, the belief. You gave me a reason to give my all every weekend. This isn’t goodbye — it’s just see you around, maybe in a different lane.”
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Stay tuned for further updates, exclusive interviews, and a look back at **Chas
e Elliott’s remarkable journey** — from Dawsonville’s prodigy to NASCAR royalty.
