King of Atlanta Returns. Chase Elliott Determined to Dominate the Ambetter Health 400 Again

As the 2025 NASCAR season kicks into high gear, one of the most anticipated races on the schedule is the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. For one driver in particular, this race carries significant weight—Chase Elliott, the undisputed “King of Atlanta.”

Born and raised in Dawsonville, Georgia, Elliott has long been a fan favorite at his home track. His previous victories in Atlanta have cemented his status as a dominant force at the speedway, and as he prepares to return in 2025, Elliott is laser-focused on reclaiming victory lane.

After facing ups and downs in recent seasons, Elliott is determined to silence the doubters, overcome setbacks, and deliver a statement performance in front of his hometown crowd. But with stiff competition and unpredictable track conditions, can the hometown hero rise to the occasion once again?

Chase Elliott’s History at Atlanta: A True Homecoming Hero

Atlanta Motor Speedway has been a special place for Chase Elliott and his legendary NASCAR family. His father, Bill Elliott, was a dominant force at Atlanta in the 1980s and 1990s, earning multiple wins and earning the nickname “Awesome Bill from Dawsonville.”

Chase, following in his father’s footsteps, has made Atlanta one of his strongest tracks. Over the years, he has delivered:

• Multiple top-5 finishes showcasing his ability to compete at the front.
• An unforgettable victory in 2022, where he took the checkered flag in front of a roaring Georgia crowd.
• A deep understanding of the track, making him one of the smartest drivers when it comes to tire management and drafting on Atlanta’s high-speed layout.

Now, as Elliott heads into the 2025 Ambetter Health 400, he’s on a mission—to reclaim his title as the “King of Atlanta” and add another hometown win to his legacy.

Overcoming Recent Struggles: Is 2025 the Year of Redemption?

While Elliott’s past performances at Atlanta have been strong, recent seasons have been challenging for the former Cup Series champion.

1. Injury Setbacks & Inconsistencies

In 2023, Elliott suffered an early-season injury that forced him to miss several races. This put him in a difficult position, having to fight from behind in the points standings. His 2024 campaign showed flashes of brilliance, but inconsistency prevented him from making a serious championship run.

2. The Ambetter Health 400 Shock in 2024

Last season, Elliott was expected to dominate at Atlanta, but an unexpected late-race incident shattered his hopes of winning in front of his home crowd. Whether it was a mechanical failure, an ill-timed caution, or a miscalculated move, Elliott left Atlanta frustrated and hungry for redemption.

Now, as the 2025 race approaches, he’s making it clear—this time, things will be different.

Why Chase Elliott Can Dominate the Ambetter Health 400 in 2025

If Elliott wants to reclaim his throne in Atlanta, he must bring his A-game. Fortunately, several factors work in his favor heading into this race:

1. Home Track Advantage

Racing at home is always special, but for Elliott, it’s even more personal. The Dawsonville Pool Room, a legendary NASCAR landmark, rings its victory siren every time an Elliott wins a race. That siren hasn’t rung for Atlanta since 2022—and Chase is determined to change that.

2. Hendrick Motorsports’ Performance at Superspeedways

Atlanta’s reconfiguration has turned it into a mini-superspeedway, making drafting and pack racing crucial to success. Hendrick Motorsports has excelled on these types of tracks, with teammates Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Alex Bowman all showing speed at similar venues.

Elliott’s No. 9 team is one of the best in the business when it comes to car setup, strategy, and execution at high-speed tracks. If his Chevrolet Camaro is dialed in, he will be a serious threat for the win.

3. A More Aggressive Elliott

Over the past few seasons, some have questioned whether Elliott is too conservative in critical race moments. However, as 2025 unfolds, he has made it clear—he’s done playing it safe.

Expect to see a hungrier, more aggressive Chase Elliott, willing to make bold moves in the draft and fight harder for track position. Atlanta often comes down to a last-lap shootout, and if Elliott finds himself in position, he won’t hold back.

4. Redemption from Last Year’s Heartbreak

Athletes thrive on motivation, and for Elliott, last year’s Ambetter Health 400 disappointment is all the fuel he needs. He has stated that winning at Atlanta in 2025 is a top priority, and his determination could make the difference when it matters most.

Who Are Elliott’s Biggest Threats in Atlanta?

While Elliott is a favorite, he’ll have to battle a stacked NASCAR field to secure victory. Some of his biggest competitors include:

1. Kyle Larson (Hendrick Motorsports)

Elliott’s own teammate has been one of NASCAR’s best on superspeedway-style tracks and will likely be in the mix for the win.

2. Ryan Blaney (Team Penske)

Blaney has proven to be one of the strongest restrictor-plate racers in NASCAR. If he’s running up front late, he will be tough to beat.

3. Ross Chastain (Trackhouse Racing)

Chastain’s aggressive, fearless racing style makes him a major wildcard. If he’s near Elliott in the closing laps, expect fireworks.

4. Denny Hamlin (Joe Gibbs Racing)

A veteran superspeedway specialist, Hamlin is always a contender in these high-speed, pack-racing battles.

With so much talent in the field, Elliott will need flawless execution if he wants to leave Atlanta as the winner once again.

Can Elliott Win the 2025 Ambetter Health 400?

While nothing is guaranteed in NASCAR, one thing is certain—Chase Elliott is entering Atlanta with a chip on his shoulder and a hunger to reclaim his dominance.

The hometown hero is motivated. His team is prepared. The fans are ready.

If Elliott can avoid trouble, position himself near the front in the closing laps, and make the right moves at the right time, there’s a strong chance that the “King of Atlanta” will reign once again.

As the green flag waves at the Ambetter Health 400, all eyes will be on the No. 9 car. Will Chase Elliott deliver a legendary victory? Or will another driver steal the spotlight?

NASCAR fans won’t have to wait long to find out.