At the conclusion of a scheduled media session at Watkins Glen, Chase Elliott unexpectedly took the floor to deliver an emotional appeal on behalf of his uncle, Ernie Elliott, ahead of the upcoming NASCAR Hall of Fame vote. The Hendrick Motorsports driver, known for his reserved demeanor, used the moment to urge fans and voters to consider Ernie for the 2027 induction class.
Ernie Elliott, a legendary engine builder and former crew chief, has been instrumental in the Elliott family’s racing legacy. Chase’s father, Bill Elliott, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2025, but Ernie remains among the nominees still awaiting selection. The younger Elliott made it clear that his uncle’s contributions deserve wider recognition.
“I know the ballot is filled with deserving names,” Chase said, speaking deliberately as the press conference wound down. “But I’d be remiss not to talk about my Uncle Ernie. He was nominated, and fans can also vote online. His role in our family’s story is immeasurable. Without him, the success of the 1980s and beyond—including my own career—would look completely different.”
Chase elaborated on Ernie’s technical genius, recalling private conversations about engines like the 1985 Winston Million and 1987 Daytona 500 powerplants. “The ingenuity he brought was second to none,” he added. “He doesn’t get enough credit, and I just wanted to express how important he was to my dad’s career and to our entire team.”
While acknowledging many worthy candidates, Chase emphasized that Ernie’s impact has been overlooked for too long. “He’s a very deserving name on the list, and I hope people understand that,” he said. “I’m biased, but I believe in his place in history.”
