BREAKING NEWS: 30 Minutes Ago, Chase Elliott Sends 5-Word Message to NASCAR That Shocks Jim France, After Hendrick Motorsports Fined $50 Million for Refusing to Post Pride Month Message on Social Media…
In a dramatic and unexpected turn of events, NASCAR’s most popular driver, Chase Elliott, has ignited a firestorm across the motorsports world with a blunt, unapologetic five-word message—just moments after Hendrick Motorsports was slammed with a staggering $50 million fine for refusing to take part in NASCAR’s official Pride Month campaign.
The fallout is spreading fast, and the cultural collision between racing, tradition, and modern expectations is fully underway.
“We Race, Not Perform Agendas.”
That was Chase Elliott’s five-word bombshell, posted just 30 minutes ago on his official X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram accounts. The statement immediately began trending nationwide and sent ripples not just through NASCAR, but also through mainstream media and political discourse.
With over 18 million views in under an hour, Elliott’s post has already drawn passionate responses from fans, sponsors, teammates, and media figures—many of whom are now wondering whether the reigning face of NASCAR is pushing back against what he sees as forced messaging in the sport.
What Triggered the $50 Million Fine?
According to reports from NASCAR insiders, the league issued a private memo to all teams at the start of June encouraging “visible, public support” for Pride Month. This included approved social media graphics, statements of solidarity, and participation in special events during race weeks.
While nearly every team complied, Hendrick Motorsports—the most decorated team in NASCAR history—remained noticeably absent from all platforms. No rainbow logos. No official posts. No public acknowledgment of the campaign.
The silence, officials say, led to internal discussions and, ultimately, a $50 million fine, announced earlier today for “failure to support league-mandated inclusivity standards.”
Chase Elliott Responds — and Divides the Sport
As Hendrick’s top driver and arguably NASCAR’s most recognizable name, Chase Elliott’s response carried immense weight. His statement—“We race, not perform agendas”—was interpreted by many as a direct challenge to the direction NASCAR has taken in recent years, as it tries to modernize and diversify its fanbase.
Within minutes, conservative commentators praised Elliott’s stance as brave and authentic:
“This is why real America loves NASCAR. Good on Chase for standing up.” – posted by Dan Bongino
But LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and fans were quick to criticize:
“When you ignore Pride, you ignore people. NASCAR can’t afford to move backward.” – tweeted by Human Rights Campaign
NASCAR’s Response So Far? Radio Silence
Despite the controversy exploding in real time, NASCAR CEO Jim France has yet to issue an official statement in response to Elliott’s message. Sources close to the league say internal discussions are “tense,” and officials are unsure how to balance support for inclusivity with respect for team and driver autonomy.
There are rumors swirling that NASCAR may consider disciplinary action against Elliott personally, especially if his comments are interpreted as undermining league values. However, with his massive popularity, such a move could backfire spectacularly.
