“That Was All We Knew” – When Chase Elliott Empathized with Dale Earnhardt Jr and the Shared Aspects of their NASCAR Careers

Dale Earnhardt and Bill Elliott. Two NASCAR Hall of Famers that almost all motorsports fans have heard about. However, who knew what it would be like to see the sons of the two legends together? Until 2014. In 2014, news about Chase Elliott driving the #9 for Dale Earnhardt Jr’s JR Motorsports made it to the headlines. And to see the two together was nothing less than interesting. Mainly because at one point in time, Dale Earnhardt and Bill Elliott were known to be fierce rivals. And the association of their sons was something that many didn’t expect.

But now, almost 8 years later, Chase Elliott and Dale Earnhardt Jr can describe themselves as good friends. And what’s better? Their collaborations keep on coming.

Elliott’s collaboration with Dale Jr.

In an August 2021 interview with the UPI, Chase Elliott revealed that he was happy to collaborate with his friend, Earnhardt Jr for his new NBC documentary ‘Chase.’ Furthermore, he explained how the similarities between them are the reason why Earnhardt Jr is the best choice to host the show. He said,

“Our paths with our fathers and how that has transpired is similar. His road is different than mine in a lot of ways, but in some ways similar.”

Sharing how he is able to relate with the 48-year-old Daytona 500 champion, 27-year-old Chase revealed what exactly he appreciates about Earnhardt Jr. He stated,

“We share some things that are unique. I’ve always respected him and how he has dealt with [challenges] throughout his life. The man and person he is today is really impressive. He seems like he has life organized correctly, which is something we can all appreciate.”

READ MORE: “A Boy Can Dream”: After Major Setback, Chase Elliott and Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Fans Unite to Manifest Fan-Favorite’s Return to NASCAR and Hendrick Motorsports

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Chase Elliott on growing up with a dad who’s famous

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Chase Elliott did not talk much while their fathers raced against each other. Apart from the differences between their family, the age difference too did not allow the two of them to bond back then. However, irrespective of that, the topic of similar upbringings is what helped them establish a relationship over the years.

Drawing parallels between his and Earnhardt Jr.’s experiences, Elliott said, “Most people who have followed NASCAR for any period have heard of my dad or certainly of Dale Sr.”

Furthermore, he added, “When you have a dad involved in something like that, it breeds added attention to their kid. It’s not that Dale or I asked for that, but we both wanted to race and both enjoyed it. That was all we knew.”

Apart from being the sons of famous drivers, Chase and Earnhardt Jr have something else in common. And that is their popularity among the fans. While talking about the kind of support they have received over the years, Elliott said,

“Fortunately for him and me, we had the right opportunities at the right times and were able to chase our dreams. And the fans have been supportive the whole way.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Perennial Fan-Favorites Dale Earnhardt Jr and Chase Elliott Have This NASCAR Legend to Thank for Their Superstardom

Chase Elliott’s 52-minute-long documentary is available on the Peacock app. Aired at NBCSN in August 2021, the documentary follows the life of Elliott and shares a glimpse of his hometown Dawsonville, Georgia.