Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) drivers have consistently succeeded this season, drawing significant attention and curiosity about their formula for success. Chase Elliott provided insight when asked by Michael Massie from Frontstretch. He emphasized the team’s solid composition and dedication to incremental improvement, stating, “We have a really solid group top to bottom, and everybody’s been super committed to finding that 1% each week.” Elliott believes the team has yet to reach its full potential, which is promising since the season is only halfway through.
Elliott also discussed his playoff strategy, emphasizing the importance of peaking at the right time. He explained that the goal is to be strong enough to reach the round of eight without necessarily being spectacular, then aiming to excel in the final races.
Recently, in Iowa’s Cup practice session, HMS drivers performed well, with Bowman leading the Chevy pack and Elliott, Larson, and Byron all showing strong average times over 10 laps. However, Elliott acknowledged a rising competitor: Shane van Gisbergen. The Supercar icon has impressed in NASCAR, notably winning his debut Cup race in Chicago and dominating Xfinity road course races in Portland and Sonoma. William Byron praised van Gisbergen’s road course prowess, noting his comfort and precision on tight circuits.
As the Chicago race approaches, Byron’s acknowledgment of van Gisbergen’s skill highlights the competitive landscape HMS faces. This raises the question of whether HMS should adjust its strategies in response to new threats in NASCAR. What do you think? Should HMS rethink its approach? Let us know.