Chase Elliott and Ross Chastain’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix Incident Sparks Debate

 

Tensions flared between NASCAR stars Chase Elliott and Ross Chastain during the opening laps of last weekend’s EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, igniting a firestorm of debate among fans and commentators. The incident, which occurred on Lap 1 of the race, saw Chastain dive-bomb Elliott off a turn, spinning him out and causing a chain reaction that also collected Denny Hamlin and Connor Zilisch. What followed, however, was just as contentious, as Chastain opted to avoid Elliott at the end of the race, refusing to face the music with the Hendrick Motorsports driver seeking a little revenge.

The moment was a bitter pill for Elliott, who had a car capable of winning the race but was forced to claw his way back through the field after the incident. Despite the setback, Elliott fought hard and finished the race in 4th place, a respectable result given the circumstances, but one that left him wondering what could have been if Chastain hadn’t ruined his chances early on.

As the NASCAR circuit heads to Phoenix Raceway this weekend, the conversation surrounding the altercation shows no signs of fading. Elliott, known for his measured and often reserved responses, addressed the incident during an interview with FOX’s Bob Pockrass. While he refrained from making any drastic comments, his frustration was palpable.

“There’s not really a lot for me to comment on. I hate it happened,” Elliott said. “It’s easy for me to say I wish it wasn’t on the first lap, which is true, but if it happens at any point in the race, you’re probably going to be bummed out about it. Was really proud of our recovery, and to be able to get back to where we were, I just hate that we had to recover.”

Elliott continued, explaining that the handling of his car was never

the same after the spin, adding to his frustration. “I hate that we had to do what we had to do. Our car never drove like it did on Saturday, which is frustrating, after that. But outside that, I don’t really have a comment on the situation.”

While Elliott’s response may have been calm and measured in front of the cameras, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he has truly put the incident behind him. The fact that he still expressed clear frustration over Chastain’s actions suggests that the issue is far from resolved. Many are left wondering if, when the opportunity arises, Elliott might seek some payback on Chastain, particularly if they find themselves side-by-side again.

The real test will come at Phoenix Raceway. Should Elliott and Chastain share the track once again, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely, hoping that any lingering tension between the two drivers will finally come to a head. With both drivers known for their competitive spirit, a confrontation—whether it’s on the track or behind the wheel—could be inevitable.

For now, the story remains open-ended. Will Elliott settle for the hard-earned P4 and move on, or will Chastain find himself the target of Elliott’s retribution when he least expects it? One thing is for certain: when it comes to racing, the drama between Elliott and Chastain is far from over. And if FOX cameras are on hand, fans are in for an exciting, and potentially explosive, chapter in this developing rivalry.