Before entering Watkins Glen, Chase Elliott was a strong contender for the regular-season title. He stood second in points, just 18 behind teammate William Byron, with three races left before the playoffs. Elliott had shown speed on road courses this year, and Watkins Glen, where he’s a two-time winner, was a major opportunity to swing key playoff points. It was a chance the team couldn’t afford to miss. The stage was set for a defining run, and yet, the result would raise more questions than answers, especially about the man calling the shots on his pit box.

The crew chief behind the scenes at the Glen was none other than Alan Gustafson. A man no stranger to success. The veteran crew chief has guided Elliott to 18 Cup Series victories. This includes the 2020 championship and ranks among

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