Chase Elliott Withdraws from NASCAR Most Popular Driver Voting to Support Kyle Busch

Chase Elliott has decided to withdraw his name from the voting for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Most Popular Driver award, which is currently open. He is encouraging fans to vote for the late Kyle Busch, who passed away in May at the age of 41 due to pneumonia complications.

Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, had a remarkable career with 234 wins across all national divisions. Elliott's decision mirrors that of his father, Bill Elliott, who also removed his name from the ballot in 2001 following the death of Dale Earnhardt, allowing Earnhardt to win the award posthumously.

Voting for the award will remain open until November 9 at 12 PM EST, with fans allowed to vote up to five times daily. Several drivers and Elliott's sponsor, NAPA, have publicly supported the campaign for Busch, who is remembered for his significant fanbase and contributions to the sport.