“Racing is Better to Watch” – Chase Elliott on the Prospect of NASCAR Racing at COTA

Recently, Chase Elliott became one of three drivers to conduct a test at the Circuit of the Americas. The other two were Brad Keselowski and Martin Truex Jr. The Penske and Joe Gibbs drivers gave a very positive verdict, and even Elliott was inclined to agree with them.

He also acknowledged that the Formula One and MotoGP paddock also visits the track often. According to Chase Elliott, the NASCAR cars may handle a little differently compared to F1 and MotoGP machinery. However, the action on the track could be a completely different story.

“We’re not going near as fast as those cars do, but I feel the product and the competitiveness on track. Us being able to race around each other is much more feasible with the speeds we’re going and how big and heavy these cars are,” Elliott said.

What else did Chase Elliott say?

He continued, “I know it’s not the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ of going through the esses and however fast those guys go. I do think the racing is better to watch. I think that’s what’s made NASCAR popular over the years, so I’m not sure why it wouldn’t be different here.”

While Keselowski and Truex had plenty of positive feedback after the test, the two drivers confessed that there is scope for chaos, especially since the very first corner is an uphill hairpin, the tightness of the corner would probably bite the drivers. In addition to that, the long straights can bear witness to several slipstream moments. Truex Jr even suspected that chances of 5-6-wide moments are a possibility.

Without a doubt, the circuit in Austin is a massive unknown for the entire paddock. This is why every driver is so keen to be the first one to conquer it and draw first blood.

Chase Elliott, Brad Keselowski, and Martin Truex Jr. to Run NASCAR Tire Test Ahead of COTA Debut