
via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 26: Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, waves to fans during pre-race ceremonies prior to the NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on September 26, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)

via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 26: Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, waves to fans during pre-race ceremonies prior to the NASCAR Cup Series South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on September 26, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
With the 2021 Cup Series season done and dusted, it is time for the drivers to unwind for a bit. Of course, they cannot afford to rest for too long, as they also have to prepare for the demanding 2022 season. Needless to say, Hendrick Motorsports driver Chase Elliott is doing just that.
Earlier, he was in Merced for a dirt event, and now he is heading to the Ventura Raceway in Southern California. Although it is not exactly asphalt racing, he seems to have no better choice. Besides, Elliott will need all the practice that he can get, in order to be ready for next season. First and foremost, he has to try and beat his teammate Kyle Larson, who will be hoping to snatch a second consecutive title.
Had a great time Merced 👊🏼
Last stop: @ventura_raceway #ashocenergy #di9 pic.twitter.com/kOvPDfENYB
— Chase Elliott (@chaseelliott) November 26, 2021
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During the off season, many NASCAR drivers often compete in other racing series in order to get some track time. For 2022, this will be all the more important. This is because the new Next Gen car will make its debut. Since the car is a big unknown in terms of race craft, the pendulum could swing in any direction.
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Chase Elliott will want to earn back his title
The 2020 Cup Series champion came close to winning a second consecutive Cup Series crown. However, he was no match for his new teammate Kyle Larson, the eventual champion. Luckily for the #9 Hendrick Motorsports driver, 2022 is a new season and a chance to wipe the slate clean.

USA Today via Reuters
Sep 26, 2021; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Chase Elliott (9) races for position against driver Kevin Harvick (4) during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Of course, there is also another big unknown, in the form of the LA Coliseum track, which makes its debut. In other words, the Cup Series paddock will visit a brand new track in a brand new car. Fortunately for them, the 2022 Cup Series season is still a few months away. Considering that there are a few tests remaining, the onus is on them to try and iron out some last minute kinks before the cars are fully ready.
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