Ross Chastain Claims He “Heard the Noise” As Fans Propelled Him Closer to Chase Elliott

In a world where pay drivers across motorsport categories are increasing in numbers by the year, Ross Chastain is one of the last remaining NASCAR heroes with a humble origin story. But he wasn’t always fortunate enough to be in the good books of the community. Especially after Kevin Harvick said that the Melon Man’s driving style in his rookie years was far too aggressive to make it to the Cup Series.

But ever since his shenanigans to make it to the playoffs paid off, his popularity is on the upside. This was further cemented by the NASCAR Most Popular Driver Award results for 2023. While Chase Elliott had his eyes set on his sixth consecutive MPD award, Chastain appeared in the top five, similar to last year.

Ross Chastain has nothing but love for the NASCAR community

It’s no secret that Ross Chastain is one of the most polarising figures in the sport. Whether he tends to have contact with every fan’s favorite driver or getting into it with the media, it’s been a dramatic journey in the Cup Series for the No. 1 driver. But his relentless pursuit of the top step has resulted in some brilliant performances. He even gave the fans one of the best modern-day moments in NASCAR last year at Martinsville. So when the top-five list of most popular drivers was released, it was no surprise that he was up there. But what did the man himself have to say?

Speaking to FrontStretch, Chastain was asked whether he was surprised to make it to the top five this year. To which, the Melon Man retorted, “No, I mean, I hear the fans. I hear the noise at the tracks and you know, it’s loud, and I’ve always paid attention to it. From the time when I didn’t get a single clap for a Truck or Xfinity race, and then you heard like one clap, and then you could hear ten and then I remember my first boo, so yeah.”

He was joined by Kyle Busch, Ryan Blaney, and Kyle Larson, in the list of challengers for the title. Even though Elliott reigned supreme, Ross Chastain couldn’t help but pay attention to the fan’s efforts. Looking back at the 2022 awards, Chastain commended his fans for their efforts. Still, he figured there was more work to do. He shared, “We were, I think second last year, but by a long margin, so I doubt it, but I know they’ve been voting. I know we’ve got a great group of fans that they get on there and vote.”

And it’s not just the fans that have gone out of their way to show their love for him. Chastain added, “And when I talk to my grandparents, they vote too. So that’s pretty cool that they get on there.” The Chastain family certainly leaves no stone unturned when supporting their man. But the #1 driver also shared that his grandparents would vote for some of his buddies in the Xfinity and Truck Series awards as well!

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Clearly, Ross Chastain is immensely grateful for the support he’s garnered over the years. Moreover, Chase Elliott also let in on how the fans have treated him and his family through the years.

‘I don’t ever take it for granted’ – Chase Elliott chimes in to commend the NASCAR community

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It’s no secret that 2023 wasn’t Chase Elliott’s year. However, there are always bound to be a few hiccups in a driver’s career even if they are as capable as the No. 9 driver. With his shoulder injury still healing after surgery only two weeks ago, Elliott went on stage to accept his sixth consecutive Most Popular Driver Award. He has been carrying on the family legacy started by his father, Bill Elliott. The senior Elliott won the most MPD awards of any driver (16 times).

Elliott cleared things once and for all by saying, as per a NASCAR.com staff report, “You know, I think it’s an easy thing to look at and to think that I would (take it for granted), but always grateful for the honor and always, always grateful to have the support that we’ve had.”

He also shared that the award has always been an extension of his family’s legacy in the sport. But the only thing that made all of this possible for the Elliott family was the community’s undying support. The 2020 Cup Series champion concluded, “The fans have been great to all of us, not just myself but my entire family. So that’s kind of how I look at it and certainly respect it and appreciate all that they do for me, and I’m looking forward to seeing folks back on the road next year.”

READ MORE: “Didn’t Want the Lead To Win”- Ryan Blaney Unmasks True Intentions Behind Heated Ross Chastain Phoenix Battle

Whether you’re a fan of Ross Chastain or Chase Elliott, it’s safe to say the community’s efforts are always appreciated. And without the fanfare, NASCAR would not be what it is today.