Chase Elliott finally broke through for his first Cup Series win at Watkins Glen International on August 5, 2018, ending a frustrating streak of eight runner up finishes. What happened next created one of NASCAR‘s most memorable moments between two Hendrick Motorsports teammates.
Read More: Why Are Confederate Flags Banned at NASCAR? The Story Behind NASCAR’s Historic Decision
Chase Elliott Was Running on Empty
Elliott dominated the final 33 laps at the Go Bowling at The Glen, securing his breakthrough victory after 99 winless starts. The win mirrored his father Bill Elliott’s career in several ways. Both drivers finished second eight times before earning their first win, and both secured their maiden victories on road courses, with Bill’s coming at Riverside International Raceway. Chase’s father Bill even served as one of his spotters during the race.
The celebration started perfectly until Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet sputtered and died on the cooldown lap. He had run out of fuel just before reaching victory lane, leaving him stranded on the track after his biggest career achievement.
Read More: Massive Layoffs at Daytona: What NASCAR’s Workforce Shakeup Means for the Sport’s Future?
Seven-Time Champion Jimmie Johnson to the Rescue
Jimmie Johnson saw his young teammate stuck and immediately drove up behind Elliott’s stalled car. The seven-time Cup Series champion pushed Elliott around the track toward the start/finish line, guiding him through the celebration amid roaring cheers from the crowd. Johnson later called Elliott “so talented behind the wheel” and said he was glad that first win monkey was off his back.
Elliott never forgot the gesture, later saying, “Jimmie Johnson pushing me to the victory lane, it was really, really, really cool. That’s something I’ll never forget.” The moment perfectly captured the respect between NASCAR generations and remains one of the sport’s most iconic images.
Read More: Total Purse for New Hampshire NASCAR Race Will Shock You: $9.8 Million Up for Grabs