Chase Elliott has withdrawn from NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver ballot, encouraging fans to vote for Kyle Busch as a tribute to the two-time Cup champion, who died May 21 at age 41. Elliott said Busch’s impact on the sport and devotion to his fans make the award a meaningful way to honor him. Other drivers, including Kyle Larson, Carson Hocevar and Chase Briscoe, are also urging fans to support Busch.

By the Numbers
  • Elliott has won the award 8 consecutive times.
  • Busch was 41 when he died; he won 2 Cup championships.
  • Elliott’s father won the award 10 consecutive times and 16 times overall.
Yes, But

Busch was a polarizing figure, but drivers say his talent, popularity and commitment to fans earned him broad respect. Hocevar said someone close to Busch believed he wouldn’t want to win by default, so drivers are asking fans to cast their votes rather than simply removing competitors from the ballot.

What's Next

NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver award is decided through online voting administered by NASCAR and the National Motorsports Press Association. Elliott and other drivers are directing their supporters to vote for Busch.

Bottom Line

Elliott is turning his own run of dominance into a chance for fans to recognize Busch’s legacy—and give his family an honor he may have wanted but never won.