BREAKING: Superstar Chase Elliott Announces Boycott of NASCAR Pride Night — “On the Track, the Focus Should Be on STOCK CAR, Not WOKE”
Charlotte, NC – In a move that’s already rattling pit lanes and polarizing fans nationwide, NASCAR fan-favorite and 2020 Cup Series Champion Chase Elliott has declared that he will not participate in the sport’s upcoming Pride Night celebration. His comments — sharp, unapologetic, and steeped in cultural commentary — are igniting a media firestorm and reigniting the debate over the role of social causes in American motorsports.
Chase Elliott: “Let Racing Be Racing”
Speaking to reporters at Charlotte Motor Speedway ahead of this weekend’s All-Star Race, Elliott was asked about the league-wide Pride Night initiative scheduled for July. The driver of the No. 9 car didn’t hesitate:
“I’ve got nothing but respect for everyone in this sport — from all walks of life. But when it comes to what we do out here, it’s about stock car racing, not symbolism. I’m a racer. Not a political figure. I won’t be wearing rainbow patches or standing for something that distracts from why fans tune in — speed, skill, and heart.”
He continued:
“I’m not trying to start a war. I’m just saying what a lot of folks in the garage and grandstands already feel.”
Social Media Meltdown: NASCAR Enters the “WOKE” Wars
Almost instantly, Elliott’s comments became the hottest topic across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and racing subreddits. Hashtags like #ChaseElliott, #NASCARBoycott, #DriveNotWoke, and #StockCarOverSymbolism rocketed to the top of U.S. trending lists.
🗣️ @TracksideTruth: “Chase Elliott just said what most drivers are too scared to admit. Keep woke out of racing.”
🗣️ @PridePitCrew: “Incredibly disheartening. NASCAR Pride Night was about visibility and inclusion, not politics. This hurts.”
🗣️ @DanicaFan88: “NASCAR should be about racing AND respect. Disappointed in Chase.”
Political commentators from both sides jumped in, with conservative outlets praising Elliott as a “hero of tradition” while progressive voices accused him of fueling division in an already-exclusive sport.
Inside the Paddock: Divided but Cautious
Garage sources suggest Elliott’s bold stance has “sent shockwaves” through the paddock. While some drivers have privately expressed support, others — particularly younger competitors and sponsors — are said to be “scrambling to clarify” their own positions.
One veteran crew chief said anonymously:
“Chase is the face of NASCAR to millions. When he speaks, the whole sport listens. But this might be bigger than he expected.”
NASCAR’s Official Response
The league, which has recently made strides toward broadening its fanbase and promoting diversity, responded with a calm but firm statement:
“NASCAR remains committed to ensuring all fans, drivers, and partners feel welcome in our sport. We support the freedom of expression while standing behind our Pride Night programming and what it represents.”
Sponsors React — or Stay Silent?
As of now, most of Elliott’s key sponsors — including NAPA Auto Parts and Hooters — have remained silent. However, marketing insiders suggest brands are “closely monitoring” the fallout. One media buyer told SportsBusiness Journal:
“Chase Elliott is a marketing machine. But if this becomes too politically radioactive, deals could quietly disappear.”
Others predict Elliott may become a new favorite for conservative companies looking to invest in a “values-based” brand ambassador.
Elliott Doubles Down on Instagram
Later in the evening, Elliott took to Instagram to clarify:
“Racing has always been my safe place. That’s all I’m fighting for — a track that unites us in competition, not in conflict. Love and respect to all. #KeepItOnTheTrack 🏁”
The Bigger Picture: What Now for NASCAR?
With its Southern roots and expanding national presence, NASCAR has tried to walk a tightrope between honoring tradition and embracing change. Chase Elliott’s declaration could be a tipping point — either cementing a pushback against perceived “wokeness,” or prompting a reckoning about who the sport really represents.
