HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS HAS EVERY SEAT SETTLED THROUGH 2028 EXCEPT ONE, AND IT BELONGS TO THE MOST POPULAR DRIVER IN THE SPORT.

William Byron recently extended. Kyle Larson is in the middle of a long term deal. Alex Bowman is on a one year before retiring, with Connor Zilisch signed to take the No. 48 in 2028.

Chase Elliott's contract runs out at the end of 2027.

Jeff Gordon was pressed on it and said Hendrick wants Elliott to drive there forever, and that they feel very confident. Then he named the complication, and it is not about whether Elliott wants to stay.

He also said something about the timing that Hendrick would probably rather he hadn't.

Does Chase Elliott finish his career in the No. 9?