Chase Elliott faces challenges in NASCAR's Chicagoland return

Chase Elliott admits NASCAR’s return to Chicagoland Speedway after seven years feels like a fresh start. The Hendrick Motorsports driver described the July 3 weekend as 'a bit of a challenge,' with only a handful of drivers having prior experience in the Next Gen car on the aged track surface.

What happened at Chicagoland?

The 1.5-mile oval reopened for NASCAR Cup Series practice on July 3, marking the first event since 2019. Elliott, who last raced at Chicagoland in 2019, noted the track’s changes. 'It’s been a long time, but I do remember it,' he said. 'This car has some different tendencies.' Only three drivers-Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney, and teammate Kyle Larson-had tested the Next Gen car there earlier in 2026.

Why it matters for Chase Elliott

Elliott relies on Larson’s insights from the April tire test, but admits firsthand experience is irreplaceable. 'There is really no way he can verbalize that to any of us and make complete sense,' Elliott said. The 2026 Cup Series champion also balances preparing for Saturday’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race, his first in the series since last year’s Pocono event.

What comes next?

NASCAR adjusted the schedule due to Friday’s thunderstorms, canceling qualifying for the O’Reilly race. Elliott welcomes the extra practice time. 'I was getting nervous about having to make a qualifying lap after a year plus,' he said. The Cup Series race at Chicagoland is set for July 5, with Elliott aiming to adapt quickly to the track’s new demands.