Generally, there is a lot of excitement when popular drivers make a return, as fans want to see them back on track, dominating the race with their beasts. However, even replacement drivers can sometimes do such a great job that it catches everyone’s attention. This was achieved by the Hendrick Motorsports driver Josh Berry, who performed better than expected in five races, finishing runner-up in the race at the Richmond Raceway.

The announcement of Chase Elliot’s return to the track was certainly positive news for his fans. HMS’s #9 driver was reported to have recovered after his injury and is scheduled to race in the upcoming race in Martinsville. Following the news of Chase Elliott’s return to the Cup Series, a motorsports reporter tweeted about Berry’s remarkable contribution to the team.

Chase Elliott’s replacement gets recognition by a NASCAR reporter

Elliot got into a snowboarding incident that injured his left leg and he had to undergo surgery. The surgery was successful but he was advised to take rest for about 6 weeks, and for bridging the gap, HMS brought in Josh Berry as the replacement driver for Elliott. Impressed by Berry’s performance, Austin Konenski tweeted, “I think Josh Berry deserves a good amount of recognition for the job he did in the No. 9 car during Chase Elliott’s injury.”

It’s hard work for a full-time Xfinity Series driver to race in the NASCAR Cup Series, let alone achieve a top-5 finish. But Berry exceeded expectations by finishing second at the Richmond Cup Series race. He successfully proved his worth as a Cup Series driver to everyone.

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Though Berry has made a case for himself for getting picked as a Cup driver, the popularity of Chase Elliot among fans is much higher for him to have a full-time slot in HMS. Amid the news of Elliott’s much-anticipated return, fans took time to comment on Konenski’s tweet.

Fans express their disagreement with Austin Konenski after Chase Elliott announces his return

Berry’s much-needed contribution to the HMS has been appreciated by many. However, there are a set of fans that feel Berry didn’t do anything special.

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At the moment, though, all eyes are focused on Chase Elliott’s return as Berry continues his Xfinity Series campaign. Will Elliott be able to perform the way he used to, or will fans once again be disappointed?