AUSTIN, Texas – Chase Elliott managed the slipping and sliding, the standing water and the poor visibility that made it hard for drivers to see just a few feet in front of them.
And when NASCAR’s debut at the Circuit of the Americas ended early because of poor racing conditions in the rain Sunday afternoon, Elliott had not only earned his first victory of the season, the reigning Cup Series champion had also made history for Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.
Elliott’s victory in the Texas Grand Prix – after 54 of the expected 68 laps on the road course – was win No. 800 for Chevrolet and No. 268 for Hendrick Motorsports, which tied Petty Enterprises for most by a team in Cup Series history.
“I never thought we’d win this many races,” said team owner Rick Hendrick, whose organization had also earned wins No. 400, 500, 600 and 700 for Chevrolet. He called it “an honor” to tie Petty.
“I’m so proud for Chevrolet,” Hendrick said. “I’ve never raced anything but Chevrolet.”