Chase Elliott Returns to Atlanta Can the Hometown Hero Make History Again?
HAMPTON, Ga. There’s no place like home, and for Chase Elliott, home means Atlanta Motor Speedway (AMS). As NASCAR’s most popular driver, Elliott commands an electrifying presence at every track, but the roar of the Georgia crowd at AMS is unmatched. With 19 career NASCAR Cup Series wins and a championship title, Elliott has given Georgia racing fans plenty to celebrate—and he’s looking to add to that legacy at the 2025 Ambetter Health 400.
“I always look forward to racing there. I’m really happy that we have two dates in Atlanta,” Elliott said. “The track has made a major investment to enhance the racing experience, and the buzz around AMS has never been bigger.”
A Legendary Track with Unforgettable Memories
Growing up in Dawsonville, Georgia, Elliott developed his skills at AMS long before he became a Cup Series star. His journey to NASCAR’s top level was shaped by nights spent battling in Thursday Thunder events, racing Bandoleros and Legend Cars on the track’s ¼-mile circuit.
“I spent a good chunk of my childhood summers down there racing on Thursday nights,” Elliott recalled. “At that time, you’re just hoping one day you’ll have a chance to race on ‘the big track.’”
That dream became reality in 2022, when Elliott captured his first NASCAR Cup Series victory at AMS—a moment he describes as one of the most meaningful wins of his career.
“Between those childhood memories and finally getting a win there, it’s definitely a special place for me. Hopefully, we can add to that.”
Elliott’s 2025 Season: Off to a Strong Start
Elliott began his 10th full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series with an impressive win at Bowman Gray Stadium in the Clash earlier this month. He followed that up with a 15th-place finish in the Daytona 500, keeping his playoff hopes alive early in the season. Now, heading into the second points-paying race of the year, Elliott is aiming for a playoff-clinching victory in front of his hometown crowd.
A win at AMS would not only cement his place in the 2025 NASCAR Playoffs but also reinforce his dominance on one of NASCAR’s most unique superspeedways.
The Unique Challenge of Atlanta Motor Speedway
Since AMS was reconfigured into a high-speed superspeedway-style track, it has presented drivers with an exhilarating but unpredictable challenge. The drafting-heavy racing, similar to Daytona and Talladega, means close-quarters battles, high speeds, and a strong likelihood of last-lap drama.
“It’s a unique place now,” Elliott said. “It races differently than any other track on the schedule. You have to be aggressive, but also smart. Managing runs and knowing when to make a move is crucial.”
For Elliott, who thrives on high-stakes moments, Atlanta’s fast-paced action fits his driving style perfectly.
Fan Frenzy: Elliott’s Unmatched Popularity
As a hometown hero, Elliott enjoys an unmatched level of fan support at AMS. Every time he takes the track, the Georgia crowd erupts, creating an electric atmosphere that fuels his performance.
“I hear it and I see it firsthand,” Elliott said. “When I’m around the area, I run into people who went to the race, and they’re like, ‘Man, that was awesome!’”
With NASCAR’s fan engagement at an all-time high, Elliott’s return to AMS is set to be a must-watch event for Georgia race fans.
Elliott’s Winning Mindset: The Drive for Greatness
For Chase Elliott, success isn’t just about winning races—it’s about constantly improving and staying ahead of the competition. As a former Cup Series champion, Elliott understands the demands of NASCAR’s grueling season, and his approach to each race reflects his commitment to excellence and consistency.
With the evolution of Atlanta Motor Speedway, Elliott has had to adjust his strategy to compete at a track that now races like a superspeedway. Drafting, positioning, and timing runs are more critical than ever, and Elliott has embraced the challenge. His ability to read the pack, anticipate moves, and stay mentally sharp gives him an edge over the competition.
“Every race is a learning experience,” Elliott said. “Atlanta is different now, but that just means we have to adapt and be ready. It’s about executing the right moves at the right time.”
As he gears up for the Ambetter Health 400, Elliott’s focus remains laser-sharp. He knows that a victory at AMS would not only boost his playoff hopes but also solidify his status as one of NASCAR’s elite drivers. For Elliott, the journey to the checkered flag is just as important as the destination.
The 2025 Ambetter Health 400: A Weekend of High-Speed Action
NASCAR’s Atlanta spring race weekend is one of the most anticipated events of the year. The Ambetter Health 400, scheduled for Sunday, February 23, 2025, promises an intense battle among NASCAR’s best drivers.
In addition to the Cup Series showdown, fans will be treated to the 11th annual NASCAR doubleheader on Saturday, February 22, 2025, featuring:
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The Fr8 208 (NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series)
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The Bennett Transportation and Logistics 250 (NASCAR Xfinity Series)
With a packed schedule of high-speed action, this Atlanta NASCAR weekend is set to be an unforgettable spectacle.
Elliott’s Strategy: What It Takes to Win at AMS
Success at Atlanta requires a perfect mix of speed, patience, and strategic aggression. With the draft playing a huge role, drivers must be prepared for sudden momentum shifts and unpredictable racing scenarios.
“You have to be in the right place at the right time,” Elliott said. “It’s about positioning yourself to be there at the end.”
Spotter communication, pit stop efficiency, and adapting to the ever-changing track conditions will all be crucial as Elliott looks to conquer AMS once again.
