Heading into Phoenix this weekend, Hendrick Motorsports are in a unique situation, one which could turn out to be a tricky one, perhaps a confusing one. This is so because while Chase Elliott is in contention for the driver’s trophy, last year’s champion Kyle Larson, is running for the owner’s championship.
Of course, there’s a big chance that the two teammates may end up victorious in their own battles, making HMS the ultimate champion this season.
But there’s also a scenario in which Elliott wins his race, but Larson falls short, and as a result, their team misses out on the bonus money. Add to that, it is the owner’s championship that offers more financial incentives for the teams compared to the driver’s title.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When asked if his team will owe more bonus money than their overall collection, Mr. H said, “We’re gonna be broke.”
He then described the current situation and what the ideal situation would be for their organization.
“That’s a great problem to have,” Hendrick claimed. “Both guys want to win and it’d be really neat if we can run 1-2. But we’re just gonna go out and do the best and see what happens.”
Since 2016, all the bonus money ($2M+ this year) for winning the Cup title is paid to the team based on the owners championship. Rick Hendrick on the possibility of Chase Elliott winning the drivers title but not the owners (and his No. 5 team eligible for the owners). pic.twitter.com/oy8yP5fHIt
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) November 3, 2022
As for whether the current rule would be changed in the future, Rick Hendrick wasn’t too confident about it as he doesn’t see NASCAR “changing anything.” But then again, he himself doesn’t feel it needs a change.
“I think it’s fine the way it is, when you saddle up and sign up, you play by the program that’s out there so I don’t think we need to change anything,” he added.
Kyle Larson feels the championship he’s in contention for, is far more important
Speaking after he secured his career’s first Homestead win a couple weeks ago, Kyle Larson, very clearly opened up on what he feels about the owner’s championship compared to the one Chase Elliott is a part of.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“If I say we were to win Phoenix, like my name isn’t going to be on the championship, but having our team be the champion I think is honestly better,” Larson said.
Larson confessed that if he had his way, he’d choose to celebrate the team championship simply because, apart from the obvious reason, “that’s the paycheck” as well.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“We’re going to go for that, and we’re fired up about it,” he added.
WATCH THIS STORY – You’re Killing Yourself Very Quickly’ – Joe Rogan & Guest Once Put Light on Bodybuilding Legends Like Ronnie Coleman Putting Their Health at Risk to Retain Their Size