In a move that has resonated deeply across the NASCAR community, Chase Elliott has officially withdrawn his name from consideration for the 2026 Most Popular Driver Award, a decision that honors the memory of the late Kyle Busch.
The motorsports world was shaken when Busch passed away on May 21, following a severe bout of pneumonia that escalated into sepsis. Reports indicate he was found unresponsive in a Chevrolet racing simulator in Concord, North Carolina, leaving fans and fellow drivers in mourning.
Just days after Busch's passing, Elliott had already voiced his support for a unique tribute: letting Busch win the fan-voted award posthumously. "I would be in extreme favor of Kyle winning the vote," Elliott said at the time. "He's a guy that certainly poured a lot of his life into this sport. Although he might've been getting boos a lot of weeks, he also had a lot of fans, and a lot of really passionate fans."
Now, with the National Motorsports Press Association opening voting for the 2026 award this Friday, Elliott has made good on his word by removing his name from the ballot. The gesture has not gone unnoticed, sparking an outpouring of admiration from fans on social media.
"Chase Elliott is a class act," one fan declared on X. Another added, "So much respect for Chase Elliott for this." Some fans even suggested a more sweeping gesture: "Every driver remove their own name from the vote, so it is unanimously Kyle Busch. In a way, this would be the drivers themselves voting."
Elliott, a former Cup Series champion, has long been a fan favorite, but his willingness to step aside speaks volumes about his character and the respect he holds for Busch's legacy. Busch, known for his intense competitiveness and polarizing personality, nevertheless amassed a devoted following over his storied career.
This act of sportsmanship echoes other moments of grace in the sport, such as when Sophie Cunningham showed class in defeat after her team's finals run. It also highlights the camaraderie that exists among drivers, even in the face of fierce rivalry.
Voting for the Most Popular Driver Award remains open until Monday, Nov. 9 at noon ET. Given Elliott's selfless move and the overwhelming sentiment from fans, it would be a shock if Busch doesn't posthumously claim the honor.
As the NASCAR family continues to grieve, Elliott's decision serves as a powerful reminder that some things transcend competition. It's a tribute that Busch, who gave so much to the sport, truly deserves.
