NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver Award is taking on a different meaning in 2026, as drivers across the sport are rallying around the late Kyle Busch. Chase Elliott has officially withdrawn from consideration, while Kyle Larson has joined the effort to encourage fans to recognize Busch’s legacy.
Elliott’s decision is particularly significant because the Hendrick Motorsports driver has won the award every year since 2018. His withdrawal ends an eight year winning streak and ensures that a different driver will receive the honor this season.
The National Motorsports Press Association confirmed Elliott’s decision Friday as voting officially opened for the 2026 award. Busch remains eligible to win, giving fans an opportunity to honor the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion following his death in May.
Elliott Wants Busch to Receive the Recognition
Elliott had discussed the possibility of removing himself from the ballot shortly after Busch’s passing. He explained that Busch had built a passionate fan base throughout his career and deserved the opportunity to receive the award.
Although Busch was sometimes one of NASCAR’s most polarizing personalities, his accomplishments and loyal supporters made him one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
Elliott’s decision also carries a family connection. His father, Bill Elliott, made a similar gesture in 2001 following Dale Earnhardt’s death. Bill Elliott holds the record with 16 Most Popular Driver awards, while Dale Earnhardt Jr. won the honor for 15 consecutive seasons.
Larson Joins the Push to Honor Busch
Larson has also encouraged supporters to vote for Busch, adding another prominent voice to the growing movement. Several other drivers have expressed support for recognizing Busch through the fan-voted award.
The effort reflects the impact Busch made throughout his NASCAR career, both through his success on the track and the passionate reactions he generated from fans.
Voting opened Friday, October 23, and will remain available until November 9 at noon Eastern time. NASCAR will announce the winner November 10 during its season-ending awards banquet in Miami.
With Elliott stepping aside and Larson encouraging fans to support Busch, the 2026 award has become an opportunity for the NASCAR community to celebrate a driver whose influence on the sport will not soon be forgotten.