The 2024 NASCAR Awards in Charlotte solidified Chase Elliott‘s status as NASCAR’s most beloved driver, as he clinched his eighth consecutive Most Popular Driver Award. Elliott now stands in third place for the all-time record behind his father, Bill Elliott, who holds the top spot with 16 wins, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., who amassed 15 victories.
With his steady hold on the award, Elliott could surpass these legends in the coming years, but the bigger question remains: Will Chase Elliott ever match the cultural and fanbase legacy of Dale Jr., a driver whose popularity transcends statistics?
The Elliott-Earnhardt Parallel
Both Chase Elliott and Dale Earnhardt Jr. have benefited from inheriting strong fanbases rooted in their fathers’ legacies. Bill Elliott, nicknamed “Awesome Bill from Dawsonville,” was an icon of NASCAR’s golden years, while Dale Earnhardt Sr. was a seven-time champion whose tragic death at the 2001 Daytona 500 cemented his status as a racing legend.
But their sons’ careers have diverged in terms of cultural impact. Despite Chase Elliott being statistically more successful—with a 2020 NASCAR Cup Championship and numerous wins—he lacks the broader appeal that propelled Dale Jr. to become a household name beyond the track.
Why Dale Jr.’s Legacy Looms Larger
- Racing in NASCAR’s Peak Era
Dale Jr. was the face of NASCAR during its prime in the early 2000s. As the sport’s viewership skyrocketed, Junior became a relatable, charismatic figure who appealed to diehard fans and casual viewers alike. His performances, paired with his father’s legacy, created a multi-generational “Junior Nation.” - Off-Track Persona
Dale Jr. has transcended his racing career with ventures like Dirty Mo Media, the popular podcast “Dale Jr. Download”, and his broadcasting work for NBC Sports. His widespread presence across traditional and digital media has kept him relevant long after his retirement. Elliott, by contrast, lives a reserved and private life, rarely engaging in media or extracurricular activities. - Cultural Impact
Dale Jr.’s ability to connect with fans on a personal level, coupled with his involvement in pop culture, solidified his position as a cultural icon. Elliott’s quieter demeanor, while endearing to his loyal fanbase, limits his reach to casual or potential new NASCAR followers.
Chase Elliott’s Challenges
While Elliott dominates the popularity vote year after year, his appeal is mostly tied to NASCAR’s core fanbase, especially the loyal followers of his father. Unlike Junior, Elliott is racing in an era where NASCAR’s overall fame has waned, making it more difficult to capture the widespread attention that Dale Jr. enjoyed during his career.
Additionally, Elliott’s reluctance to engage in non-racing activities could hinder his legacy once he steps away from the track. Without the media presence or broader cultural footprint of Junior, Elliott risks fading from the spotlight in retirement.
Voices from the Racing World
Ex-NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace highlighted the vast difference in their popularity, even pointing out that Dale Jr., who runs a single Xfinity Series race each year, remains a massive fan favorite:
“Dale Jr. runs one Xfinity race a year… He’s the most popular driver in NASCAR right now and doesn’t even race. Because he’s got Dirty Mo Media, ‘Dale Jr. Download,’ and all the other things he does.”
Wallace’s comments reflect a sentiment shared by many in the racing community. Dale Jr.’s unparalleled connection with fans continues to eclipse his contemporaries, even years after his retirement.
What Elliott Must Do to Cement His Legacy
If Chase Elliott wants to create a legacy that rivals Dale Jr.’s, he must expand his influence beyond the track. This could include:
- Developing a stronger media presence with podcasts, social media, or broadcasting roles.
- Embracing opportunities in pop culture to reach a broader audience.
- Engaging with fans through more public appearances and events.
For now, Elliott remains NASCAR’s most popular active driver, but achieving Dale Jr.’s cultural significance will require him to embrace a more outgoing and accessible persona.
The Verdict
Chase Elliott may well surpass Dale Earnhardt Jr. and even his father, Bill Elliott, in Most Popular Driver Awards, but legacy is about more than accolades. Dale Jr.’s off-track charisma, cultural relevance, and enduring fan loyalty have set a bar that will be difficult for any driver—Elliott included—to match.
For now, Elliott’s focus will remain on winning races and championships, but as NASCAR evolves, the question of his long-term impact will persist. Will Chase Elliott become the face of the sport in the same way as Dale Jr.? Only time will tell.