BREAKING NEWS: After Chase Elliott posted an emotional statement: “I’ll take a pay cut. I’ll prove I’m healthy. Let me stay and contribute.”—Chase Elliott’s heartfelt plea to stay with Hendrick, Rick Hendrick sent a powerful five-word message to Chase Elliott that could impact his future with Hendrick.

June 18, 2025 — Charlotte, NC — In a dramatic turn of events that has captured the attention of the NASCAR world, Chase Elliott, the 2020 Cup Series champion and one of the sport’s most beloved figures, posted an emotional public plea to remain with Hendrick Motorsports, the only Cup Series team he has ever driven for. His message: raw, heartfelt, and deeply personal.

“I’ll take a pay cut. I’ll prove I’m healthy. Let me stay and contribute,” Elliott wrote in a statement shared on social media Wednesday morning. “I’ve never wanted anything more than to keep driving for Hendrick. I’m still that guy.”

The post sent shockwaves through NASCAR circles and among fans, sparking speculation about Elliott’s standing with the team amid recent struggles and contract uncertainty. With rumors swirling about a potential shake-up within Hendrick Motorsports’ driver lineup after the 2025 season, Elliott’s future appeared to be hanging in the balance.

But just hours later, team owner Rick Hendrick delivered a succinct but powerful five-word response that may have changed the narrative entirely:

“We’re not done with you.”

According to sources close to the team, Hendrick’s message was sent directly to Elliott and later confirmed by a Hendrick Motorsports spokesperson. The five words are now being seen as a public vote of confidence and a potential turning point in what had become an emotionally charged situation.

The Background: A Season of Struggles and Speculation

Elliott, 29, has been a cornerstone of Hendrick Motorsports since making his Cup Series debut in 2016. The son of NASCAR legend Bill Elliott, Chase has brought youthful energy, massive fan appeal, and competitive excellence to the No. 9 car, including a championship run in 2020.

However, the past two seasons have seen a mix of injuries, inconsistent performances, and missed playoff appearances. Critics have questioned whether Hendrick might be looking to shake things up — especially with several rising talents waiting in the wings and contracts reportedly up for negotiation.

In the face of mounting doubt, Elliott’s statement appears to have been a last-ditch effort to reaffirm his commitment — not just to racing, but to the Hendrick organization specifically.

“This team is family,” Elliott added. “It’s where I belong. I’ve made mistakes, I’ve had setbacks, but I believe I still have so much to give.”

Rick Hendrick’s Message: Loyalty or Leverage?

While the five-word message from Rick Hendrick — “We’re not done with you” — has been widely interpreted as a show of support, it may also leave the door open for strategic flexibility. Sources inside the Hendrick organization say discussions about Elliott’s contract extension are ongoing, but no official agreement has been signed.

NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass commented, “Rick Hendrick doesn’t waste words. If he says something like that, it means Chase is still in the long-term picture — but it also means Chase will need to prove it on the track.”

Fan Reaction: Emotional and Overwhelming Support

The NASCAR fanbase responded to Elliott’s statement with overwhelming support. Within hours, #LetChaseStay and #KeepThe9 began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands of fans voicing their admiration for his transparency and dedication.

Longtime fans pointed to Elliott’s past accomplishments, including 18 career wins and his clean driving style, as proof that he still belongs among the sport’s elite.

What’s Next?

While Hendrick’s message has provided clarity in the short term, it’s clear that Elliott will still need to deliver in the second half of the 2025 season. His performance over the next few races — especially heading into the playoff cut line — could play a major role in determining the terms of any contract extension.

Rick Hendrick has a history of standing by his drivers through adversity, but he’s also made tough decisions when necessary. For now, it appears Elliott has earned a reprieve — and possibly more — with a plea that struck at the heart of what NASCAR is all about: loyalty, grit, and the unbreakable bond between driver and team.

Bottom Line:
Chase Elliott’s emotional plea was met with a powerful — if brief — show of faith from Rick Hendrick. Whether that faith turns into a renewed contract or just more time to prove himself remains to be seen. But for Elliott, those five words may be the lifeline he needed.