Ross Chastain has built a reputation as NASCAR’s boldest disruptor, rising from a humble background as a watermelon farmer’s son to capturing wins in the Cup Series and redefining how far grit can take a driver. But beneath Chastain’s fearless driving and memorable moments, like his playoff-clinching “Hail Melon” wall ride and the Coca-Cola 600 win in 2025, one consistent figure has quietly powered Trackhouse Racing’s No. 1 team: his crew chief Phil Surgen.
Their partnership stands out in the modern garage. It’s like a strategist and a star aligning for breakthrough results on NASCAR’s grandest stage. Here’s a look inside the journey and leadership of Phil Surgen, the mind guiding Chastain’s Cup Series career.
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Phil Surgen’s early life and background
Phil Surgen was born on November 15, 1981, in Lake Elmore, Vermont, a region far from NASCAR’s southern roots but rich in mechanical tradition. Growing up, Surgen was immersed in rural life but found fascination working on engines and motorsport projects with his family and friends, sparking an early love for racing. He attended local short tracks throughout New England, often volunteering for grassroots stock car teams and honing mechanical skills as a teenager.
Surgen’s analytical mindset and affinity for engineering set him apart early, leading him to pursue a formal background in mechanical engineering before transitioning to the racing industry. His upbringing taught him resourcefulness and the value of precision. These traits would later become hallmarks throughout his motorsports career.
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How did Phil Surgen climb the ranks of NASCAR?
Surgen’s trajectory through NASCAR was built on a relentless work ethic and technical expertise. Starting as a race engineer and tire specialist for small regional teams, Surgen quickly made his mark, attracting opportunities in the NASCAR Xfinity and Cup Series garages. By the late 2000s, he became a valued engineer for Chip Ganassi Racing, contributing to car setups and data analysis. His breakthrough came in 2020 as he was named interim crew chief for Matt Kenseth’s No. 42 Chevrolet, where he showcased his ability to lead under pressure.
Surgen’s knack for race-day adjustments and communication elevated him to a full-time Cup crew chief role at Trackhouse Racing in 2022, partnering with Ross Chastain. The promotion was the culmination of years spent immersing himself in every aspect of garage life, and quickly, Surgen proved that his methodical approach and rapport with drivers could deliver results at NASCAR’s highest level.
What challenges and controversies did Phil Surgen Face as a crew chief?
No NASCAR career is without hardship, and Surgen’s time atop the pit box has seen both controversy and resilience. Like many crew chiefs, he’s weathered penalties and setbacks, ranging from parts infractions to bad pit-road calls costing potential wins. Notably, in 2023, Surgen faced a brief suspension due to an unapproved modification discovered in post-race inspection, testing his resolve and reputation.
Critics at times questioned his in-race strategy during close, high-stakes scenarios, but Surgen bounced back by focusing on clear communication and inventive problem-solving. His ability to learn from mistakes, maintain team morale, and pivot under pressure has earned him universal respect within the garage. These experiences have defined Surgen as a leader willing to shoulder adversity and come back stronger, crucial for the intense world of Cup Series competition.
How has Phil Surgen’s partnership with Ross Chastain defined his career?
The alliance between Surgen and Chastain has become one of NASCAR’s most compelling new-driver/crew chief dynamics. Their chemistry, built on mutual respect and candid communication, propelled Trackhouse to its breakthrough Cup wins. First at Circuit of the Americas, then Talladega, and in marquee races like the 2025 Coca-Cola 600. Surgen’s tailored strategies and calm during chaos have matched Chastain’s tenacity, while his engineering background optimizes the unpredictable Next Gen car.
As Chastain matured, learning to “finish races as well as he runs,” Surgen’s mentorship was instrumental, helping the team avoid costly mistakes that once marred promising runs. Their partnership not only changed Trackhouse Racing’s trajectory but also helped solidify both men as forces to be reckoned with in NASCAR’s modern era.
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What does the future look like for Phil Surgen?
Looking ahead, Surgen’s influence as a Cup Series crew chief appears poised for longevity. He will be looking to guide Trackhouse Racing through its ambitions of multi-car powerhouse status. His adaptability with evolving car technology and proven ability to develop young talent position him for potentially broader responsibilities, including competition director roles or mentoring future crew chiefs.
For now, Surgen remains committed to chasing a championship with Chastain, continuing to innovate as NASCAR’s technical rules evolve. As Trackhouse expands and the competitive landscape shifts, expect Phil Surgen’s experience and methodical leadership to play a central role. He is shaping not just races, but the next generation of Cup Series success.