All Hendrick Motorsports drivers secured victories in the Cup Series this year, but Kyle Larson led the pack with an impressive six wins. However, it was Chase Elliott who had more to celebrate than just race wins. After a challenging 2023 season marred by an injury and suspension, Elliott snapped a 42-race winless streak and ended the year reclaiming the Most Popular Driver title.
Elliott made headlines off the track as well, arriving at the NASCAR Awards banquet with a guest—Ashley Stephenson, a blonde-haired, blue-eyed woman who confirmed his active dating life. Stephenson, a hairstylist and lifestyle vlogger, recently shared heartfelt birthday wishes for Elliott as he turned 29, posting, “Happiest birthday, Bubs! Thankful for you,” alongside affectionate emojis.
Elliott’s 2024 season was a testament to his determination. After missing the playoffs last year, he bounced back with renewed focus. Despite his wins ending after an April triumph in Texas, where he edged out Ross Chastain in an overtime restart, Elliott delivered consistent performances, earning 11 top-fives and 19 top-tens. Although he didn’t progress beyond the Round of 8, he retained his Most Popular Driver title for the seventh consecutive time.
Stephenson, twinning with Elliott in all-black attire, accompanied him to the awards ceremony. The couple, who share roots in Dawsonville, Georgia, have reportedly been longtime friends before their relationship blossomed following Elliott’s split from his ex-girlfriend, Kaylie Green. Stephenson has been a regular presence at the racetrack, with her oldest Instagram post featuring Elliott dating back to mid-2020. Her appearance at the ceremony marked their first public outing together in some time.
In addition to her connection with Elliott, Stephenson is friends with Gianna Tulio, Ryan Blaney’s fiancée. As the NASCAR community celebrated Thanksgiving, Elliott enjoyed the double joy of his Most Popular Driver honor and his relationship with Stephenson, though the award drew some criticism from fans. Looking ahead, Elliott can also take pride in securing a new sponsor for 2025.
