Elliott to run Dale Jr. 2014 Throwback Paint Scheme at Darlington

The first throwback paint scheme for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Darlington Throwback Weekend has been unveiled, with a tribute to Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s 2014 season. Chase Elliott and the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports team will honor Earnhardt’s No. 88 National Guard car from that year via Elliott’s sponsor, UniFirst.

Earnhardt secured three of his four wins that season in the National Guard paint scheme, including the prestigious Daytona 500. In a video shared by Hendrick Motorsports on social media, the surprise reveal of the paint scheme was made by Elliott as Earnhardt Jr. admired the car. Further discussion about the reveal took place on Dale Jr.’s podcast when he hosted Elliott as a guest. Earnhardt mentioned how well his scheme had been captured on the 9 car, and what an honor it was to be acknowledged in this manner.

Speculation about the announcement had spread like wildfire after the video debuted on social media, with many hoping for Earnhardt’s return to the NASCAR Cup Series.