SHOCKING NEWS: NASCAR Spiritual Leader Chase Elliott Announces Boycott of NASCAR’s Pride Night — “On the Track, the Focus Should Be Racing, Not WOKE”

Charlotte, NC – June 10, 2025 — NASCAR’s most popular driver and widely regarded spiritual leader, Chase Elliott, has ignited intense public debate after announcing that he will boycott NASCAR’s upcoming Pride Night events, stating that his focus remains solely on racing and that the sport should avoid what he described as “woke distractions.”

Speaking during a post-qualifying media session at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the 2020 Cup Series Champion stunned reporters with a candid explanation for his decision to sit out all off-track promotional Pride Night appearances scheduled for this weekend’s race.

“I have love for all people,” Elliott began, “but I believe on the track, the focus should be racing — not woke messaging. I’m here to drive, compete, and represent my values with humility.”

Boycott of NASCAR’s Pride Night Events

Elliott clarified that while he will still race in the Coca-Cola 600, he will not participate in any Pride-themed pre-race ceremonies, fan events, or media promotions tied to NASCAR’s “Drive With Pride” initiative.

These events, part of NASCAR’s broader inclusion campaign, were designed to highlight support for the LGBTQ+ community, including rainbow decals on vehicles, social media campaigns, and a pre-race tribute featuring Pride flags and messages of equality.

Elliott’s decision follows a similar path taken by a few other athletes in other sports, but he is by far the most prominent NASCAR driver to publicly step away from a league-endorsed social initiative.

“This isn’t about hate,” Elliott insisted. “It’s about keeping the main thing the main thing. I’ve always been honest about my faith, and I believe God comes first — even when it’s not the popular thing to say.”

Mixed Reactions in the Paddock and Beyond

Elliott’s statement has been met with a firestorm of reaction within the NASCAR community and far beyond.

Fellow driver Bubba Wallace, known for his own advocacy for diversity in the sport, responded with a brief but pointed message on X (formerly Twitter):

“Inclusion doesn’t take away from racing. It makes room for everyone to belong.”

Meanwhile, Hall of Fame legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. said in a podcast that while he respects Chase’s right to speak his mind, he hopes the sport can continue to evolve into a space that “welcomes every kind of fan.”

Fans, too, have taken sides. Some praised Elliott for standing firm in his beliefs.

“Finally, someone in sports willing to say what a lot of us are thinking. Racing is racing — leave politics out of it,” one fan wrote online.

Others were disappointed, accusing Elliott of using faith to justify exclusion.

“You don’t get to call yourself a role model and then choose silence when it matters. Pride isn’t politics — it’s survival for some of us,” commented a longtime LGBTQ+ NASCAR fan.

NASCAR Issues Official Response

NASCAR responded swiftly with a brief public statement Tuesday evening:

“NASCAR remains committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and respect. While we honor individual perspectives, our mission remains to create a sport where every fan, crew member, and driver feels seen and valued.”

The league has not indicated any plans to modify or scale back Pride Night events.

Faith, Fame, and the Public Eye

Chase Elliott, son of NASCAR legend Bill Elliott, has long been one of the sport’s most private yet admired figures. Often described as calm, composed, and principled, he has built a loyal fanbase that sees him not only as a skilled driver but as a man of deep conviction.

Elliott has often spoken about his Christian faith as the cornerstone of his life, and has participated in several non-profit and faith-based outreach programs in Georgia, his home state.

“Everyone’s welcome to be who they are,” Elliott said. “But I have to be who I am, too. And if that means sitting this one out respectfully, then that’s what I’ll do.”

The Road Ahead for NASCAR

As the sport continues to grapple with how best to balance tradition, fan loyalty, and broader cultural engagement, Elliott’s move may spark a deeper conversation across the paddock and the fanbase.

Some believe this marks a setback in NASCAR’s efforts to modernize and expand its audience. Others see it as a moment that reflects the complexity of blending sports, identity, and personal belief in a hyper-connected world.

Regardless of where one stands, one thing is certain: Chase Elliott has taken a position — and the entire racing world is watching.