Jeff Gordon’s luxurious career began racing quarter midgets in Rio Linda, California at five-years-old, now at 42-years-old he’s became one of the most successful NASCAR competitors in history. However, his impressive 22-year NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career is nearing its conclusion.
Following and impressive sixth place finish in the 2013 NSCS standings, Gordon and Hendrick Motorsports hinted to fans that once Gordon’s current sponsorship deal concludes, in 2016, Gordon will step down from driving duties, which will conclude his reign with Hendrick. Seizing control of the No. 24 Chevrolet will be up and coming star Chase Elliott, who is the son of former NASCAR champion Bill Elliott.
Despite his existence in NASCAR winding down, Gordon wants to end his career with one last Sprint Cup championship. Gordon, who’s won four Cup titles, hasn’t been involved in the champion’s celebration at Homestead-Miami Speedway since the 2001 season.
“I’ve put in 20-plus great years,” Gordon said “I do this now because I love it, because I like being competitive, and because I want another championship. I want to get a (fifth) Sprint Cup championship.”
This off-season NASCAR implemented a new Chase system that will benefit Gordon greatly. The format of the new system is shown in the picture below.
The format focuses on consistent finishes and eventually winning the final race. Last season, Gordon average finishing position was 13.0, which is quite impressive with the level of competition in this era. Therefore, Gordon’s consistency will assist him to be successful with the new system.
Nevertheless, Gordon knows he has two-years before his tenure closes making his last two seasons as crucial as ever. The 2014 Daytona 500 will begin Gordon’s quest towards a fifth, and probably final, Sprint Cup championship. He’ll begin the race eighth after finishing second in the Budweiser Duel.
