Corey LaJoie reacts to Chase Elliott Kansas win, defends Alan Gustafson

Last night’s win at Kansas was big for Chase Elliott. Corey LaJoie, a one-time sub for the No. 9 team, enjoyed the race on Sunday. LaJoie is more of a broadcaster now, but still has NASCAR races on his schedule for 2025.

Corey LaJoie knows so many of the drivers and team members who are still racing each week in NASCAR. While his own driving career has been somewhat derailed in he last year or so, LaJoie still has intimate knowledge of the sport.

You can count him among those watching who thought the Elliott win was good. Of course, the way he did it was nothing short of impressive, too. And did it all come down to his crew chief this time?

“When Clyde wins, we all win. Pumped for the 9 guys,” LaJoie posted on X/Twitter. “For those who may have forgotten, Alan Gustafson is still a first ballot hall of famer.”

Chase Elliott was back on the fifth row when the green flag came down on the final restart. He had previously put four tires on his car when the rest of the field had opted for two tires prior to the two overtime restarts.

That call from crew chief Alan Gustafson, combined with Elliott’s driving on the last restart, won this race. It was a Toyota show all afternoon. They had the top-five positions on the restart. But it was Chevy, Elliott, and Hendrick who ended up winning in the end.

Corey LaJoie has worked closely with Hendrick

Of course, Corey LaJoie has driven the No. 9 car. He has worked closely with that organization when he subbed in for Elliott during his one-race suspension in 2023. While that race didn’t go according to plan, LaJoie has valued that experience.

LaJoie was great on the broadcasts for Prime Video this summer. He is a really solid podcast host. So, there are other things for him to do outside of driving, and he’s likely very well-suited for a long term in media if he wants it.

Having LaJoie be so fresh out of the car is invaluable as far as his insights into the races, the cars, and the drivers. It doesn’t hurt that he is still getting laps in during his time with Spire Motorsports in the Truck Series.

Corey LaJoie was a big fan of the win on Sunday. Does this spark a run for the 9 team that carries them all the way to the Championship 4 in Phoenix?