Chase Elliott Focused on Another Win at Phoenix After Most Memorable Career NASCAR Win in 2020

Four months ago, Chase Elliott seized victory at the season finale at the Phoenix Raceway, emerging as the 2020 Cup Series championship winner. Now, the Hendrick Motorsports driver returns to the scene of his glory, this time as a defending champion.

Last year, he put in two impressive runs at the racetrack, grabbing pole position on both occasions. Admittedly, he had the second one taken away on the basis of technical infringements. However, that did little to stop his plucky charge up the order.

“(I’m) definitely looking forward to getting back to Phoenix, last trip was something I’ll never forget,” Elliott said. “But, obviously, eyes forward now and just thinking what we need to do to be fast and have our car driving like it needs to be.”

Chase Elliott hopes for a good finish at the track

In the first Phoenix race, he led 93 laps, but only ended up in seventh place. When he visited the track again in November, he had unfinished business. He ended up leading 153 laps to earn his maiden NASCAR Cup Series title.

Admittedly, Elliott could reach victory lane, especially since he is starting in sixth place. It also helps that he has been in fine form during the season, considering his second-place finish at the Daytona 500 and two Top 15 finishes at Homestead and Las Vegas. He has also led a grand total of 73 laps so far this season. Additionally, the Georgia native has a good record at the Phoenix Raceway, with a win, three top-five finishes and six top-10s.

With the momentum on his side in the 2021 Cup Series season, he will be one of the favorites. However, the season can be unpredictable and just about anyone can win a race. Elliott also has to navigate past Brad Keselowski, Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell and Martin Truex Jr.

So, the race on Sunday should be interesting, to say the least.

READ MORE: Where Did NASCAR Champ Chase Elliott Lose His Momentum to Finish 13th in Cup Race at Las Vegas?