Chase Elliott to Return to the NASCAR Cup Series at Martinsville

Hendrick Motorsports said Wednesday that Chase Elliott will return to his No. 9 NASCAR Cup Series Chevrolet this Sunday at Martinsville Speedway.

Doctors cleared the 2020 Cup Series champion for competition Tuesday. After testing with the Chevrolet simulator Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning, Elliott decided to return.

“We’re looking forward to having Chase back in his race car to pick up where he left off,” Rick Hendrick said. “Since the injury, he’s worked extremely hard and focused all his time and energy on returning to the No. 9 team. Throughout the last six weeks, he’s stayed fully engaged with everything we’re doing, and we know he’s chomping at the bit to get on the racetrack and compete for wins.”

Elliott is back after suffering a fractured tibia March 3 in Colorado. The 2020 Cup Series champion sat out six races while he went through rehab and physical therapy.

Hendrick Motorsports said NASCAR granted Elliott a waiver to remain playoff-eligible.

While Elliott was out, Josh Berry filled in for five races and Jordan Taylor filled in at Circuit of the Americas.

“Having such high-caliber drivers available was a huge benefit, especially under difficult circumstances,” said Jeff Andrews, president and general manager of Hendrick Motorsports. “Josh and Jordan each brought a tremendous amount of professionalism to our team, and we’re truly grateful for their contributions. Their preparation and talent made a big difference. We can’t overstate it.”