A Vote Beyond the Track
Chase Elliott, an eight‑time National Motorsports Press Association Most Popular Driver, has asked fans to cast their 2026 ballots for Kyle Busch instead of himself.
Busch’s death earlier this year was the result of severe bacterial pneumonia that quickly progressed to sepsis, a loss that shocked the racing community.
Elliott says the late driver’s massive fan base and lasting impact on the sport merit the recognition, and he believes a fan‑driven vote can honor that legacy.
A Legacy That Resonates
The gesture mirrors a 2001 appeal by Bill Elliott, who urged supporters to vote for Dale Earnhardt after the iconic driver’s fatal crash.
Bill Elliott’s own ten‑year reign as the most popular driver set a precedent, showing how personal connections can shape the award’s outcome.
The NMPA’s popularity award relies exclusively on fan votes, making it a unique barometer of drivers’ relationship with their audience.
As the 2026 election approaches, Elliott’s request adds a new chapter to a tradition that blends remembrance, respect, and the power of collective fan voice.