WATCH: Chase Elliott Knocks Out Ford Star From Playoffs in Spine-Chilling Crash

In the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs, the Enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway (Gateway) unfolded with unexpected drama. On Lap 36, a three-wide maneuver involving Josh Berry, Joey Logano, and Chase Elliott led to contact between Elliott and Berry. Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet made slight contact with Berry’s No. 21 Ford, causing Berry to spin and crash into the Turn 2 wall. The impact was significant, leading to extensive damage to Berry’s car and effectively ending his race.

Following the incident, Berry’s team communicated their perspective, stating, “The 9 dove in late and put you three wide.” Berry himself remarked, “He washed up off the bottom, right? I saw it coming. I left a little bit of space.” These statements suggest a difference in perception regarding the cause of the collision. Despite the differing viewpoints, the result was clear: Berry’s playoff hopes took a significant hit, and he was forced to retire from the race.

The race ultimately forced a caution on Lap 37, with insiders summarizing the impact on Berry and his playoff hopes but also expecting a response from Elliott’s team, saying, “Just watched Elliott’s full POV of that wreck. He dove in there from 2+ lengths back. Berry didn’t leave much room. Chase came off the bottom a foot or so. Haven’t heard anyone on Elliott’s radio comment on the wreck.” From the pit strategy to split-second positioning, the sequence underscored just how unforgiving Gateway can be, where one contact can derail an entire playoff campaign.

Contact with Chase Elliott sends Josh Berry into the wall and brings the second caution of the day.

USA Network pic.twitter.com/3QhRXBcZPQ

— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) September 7, 2025

This is a developing story.

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