AVONDALE, Ariz. – If Chase Elliott hopes to win his first NASCAR Cup Series championship, he’ll have to do it from the rear of the field Sunday at Phoenix Raceway.
Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet Camaro failed pre-race inspection twice Sunday morning, resulting in Elliott being forced to start the Season Finale 500 from the tail of the field. Elliott was originally scheduled to start Sunday’s race from the pole.
Elliott’s car passed inspection on the third attempt.
The cars of the other three championship contenders – Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski and Denny Hamlin – cleared inspection with no issues and will lead the field to the green flag at the one-mile tri-oval.
Sunday’s race is scheduled to start shortly after 3 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on NBC.