Chase Elliott withdraws from NASCAR Most Popular Driver vote

NASCAR Cup Series driver Chase Elliott has opted to remove his name from the 2026 Most Popular Driver ballot. The decision serves as a tribute to the late Kyle Busch, who passed away in May at the age of 41 due to sepsis.

Elliott, who has held the award for seven consecutive seasons, stated that he believes Busch deserves the honor due to his significant and passionate fanbase. Elliott noted that while Busch was often a polarizing figure, he possessed a massive following that should be recognized.

This gesture follows a precedent set by Elliott’s father, Bill Elliott, who removed himself from contention in 2001 following the death of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Fan voting for the award is currently open and will run through November 9, with the winner to be announced at NASCAR’s season-ending awards banquet on November 10.