Chase Elliott Jumps To Harrison Burton's Defense After Critics Question Playoff Position

Harrison Burton, who started the race ranked 34th in points standings—the lowest among all full-time drivers—claimed his first Cup Series victory in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona.

This surprising win not only marked a personal milestone for Burton but also represented the prestigious 100th win for the Wood Brothers Racing team.

Given the recent changes to NASCAR’s playoff qualification rules, Burton’s victory secured him a spot in the playoffs, a development that has stirred up considerable debate within the racing community.

The 2024 NASCAR season saw the elimination of the top 30 points requirement for playoff eligibility, setting the stage for unexpected competitors like Burton to leap into playoff contention upon winning a race.

Chase Elliott, driver of the #9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on August 23, 2024 in Daytona Beach, Florida….

James Gilbert/Getty Images

This adjustment played a crucial role in the outcome at Daytona, allowing Burton to advance despite his prior standings.

The racing world reacted strongly to Burton’s surprise qualification, with voices of doubt clashing against the support. Chase Elliott has staunchly supported Burton’s playoff spot. He explained to Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports:

“Man, that’s tough. I probably have a lot of opinions on that stuff, but I totally let them [NASCAR] make that call. As it pertains to last weekend, look — Harrison did a good job.

“I know all those guys really well from dad’s [Bill Elliott] time racing with them from me being a kid and I was just super happy for them to win and to get their 100th win — I think it’s an incredible milestone.

“I just wanna say that. Really am happy for all parties involved. Jeff Burton’s a good friend of mine and I enjoy watching Harrison too. So, really just happy for them.

“Look, they don’t make the rules. NASCAR makes the rules, and this is the format they created. This is what you’re gonna get sometimes whenever the cards fall like they did on Saturday night.

“So, I think for any of us to question that is just unfair because this is the reality and that’s the format they rightfully took advantage of. Props to them.”

Burton himself was visibly moved by his triumph. He explained to the media after the race, as quoted by YardBarker.com:

“I cried the whole victory lap. I, obviously, got fired from this job. Wanted to do everything for the Wood brothers that I could.

“They’ve given me an amazing opportunity in life and to get them [win No.] 100 on my way out is amazing. We’re in the playoffs now. Let’s go to Darlington and see what happens.”