Darlington, SC — One of NASCAR’s most beloved modern traditions may be running on fumes—at least in the eyes of 2020 Cup Series champion Chase Elliott. Ahead of the Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway, Elliott made headlines with his candid take on Throwback Weekend, a celebration of NASCAR’s history that has become a staple at “The Lady in Black.”
“I feel like it got old 4-5 years ago. Not to be a downer,” Elliott said when asked about the future of the themed race weekend. “If we kept doing it down the road we’re gonna be throwing it back to me in 2018. … I think we’ve rode the horse to death.”
Elliott’s comments offer a surprisingly frank perspective on a weekend that has long been praised for its retro paint schemes, nostalgic apparel, and nods to legends of the sport. What started in 2015 as a creative way to honor the past has become a marketing mainstay for teams and sponsors—but perhaps, in Elliott’s view, it has lost some of its authenticity and impact over time.
The No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports driver isn’t known for stirring controversy, which makes his remarks even more notable. While fans continue to appreciate seeing tributes to drivers like Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, and Richard Petty, Elliott’s point about the concept running its course resonates in a sport that is constantly balancing tradition with innovation.
Some fans on social media were quick to agree, noting that the creativity of schemes has declined, and that many “throwbacks” are now just modern variations with limited historical connection. Others pushed back, saying the weekend still brings a unique energy and connects newer fans to NASCAR’s deep roots.
Elliott’s honesty might reignite the conversation around how NASCAR celebrates its history—and whether new ideas are needed to keep fans engaged.
As for Sunday’s Goodyear 400, throwback paint schemes will still roll off at Darlington, but now with a little more scrutiny—and maybe a sense that the sport’s looking forward more than it’s looking back.
