HAMPTON, Ga. — Chase Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion, returns to his home track, Atlanta Motor Speedway—now EchoPark Speedway—for the Cup race on June 28, 2025. Hailing from Dawsonville, Georgia, Elliott carries deep ties to this 1.54-mile quad-oval, where he claimed a thrilling victory in July 2022. That win, his first at Atlanta, saw him dominate by leading 96 laps and fending off a late charge. With an average finish of 11.8 at Atlanta, second-best among active drivers, and seven top-10s in 11 starts, Elliott’s mastery of this high-speed drafting track makes him a formidable contender.
For this race, Elliott’s No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet unveils a vibrant paint scheme through the DESI9N TO DRIVE program, a heartfelt initiative with NAPA Auto Parts and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
The 2025 design, created by 11-year-old cancer patient Rhealynn Mills, transforms Elliott’s car into a symbol of hope. Diagnosed with Metastatic Osteosarcoma in 2022, Rhealynn endured 19 surgeries, including a leg amputation, yet her red, white, and blue design radiates resilience. The scheme, adorning both car and uniform, supports the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, aiding thousands of pediatric patients annually. Fans can contribute via an online sweepstakes, with chances to win race-worn gear or meet Elliott, boosting the program’s nearly half-million-dollar impact.
Elliott, fourth in 2025 points without a win this season, aims to reignite his championship form at Atlanta. His 2022 victory showcased his drafting skill, crucial for navigating the track’s pack-style racing, and his car control in that year’s rain-soaked race could prove vital if weather strikes again. Hendrick Motorsports’ top-tier equipment gives him an edge, despite a winless 2025 campaign. His five Cup wins in 2022, including Atlanta, highlight his ability to close out races under pressure.
The June 28 race marks the first round of NASCAR’s new Bracket Challenge, where fans can predict race outcomes for prizes. Tickets are available at echoparkspeedway.com, offering a chance to see Elliott’s homecoming live. With hometown support and a meaningful cause, Elliott’s blend of skill and heart positions him to chase victory. The green flag drops at 7 p.m. ET on TNT, promising high-stakes racing and emotional resonance.
In case you missed it, the World of Outlaws racing series sparked some controversy on Tuesday.
NASCAR Star Chase Elliott Unveils New Paint Scheme