Home Blog Page 54

Denny Hamlin scores first Cup pole of 2026 at Martinsville

By
Andrew Kim
-
Denny Hamlin wis Cup Series Pole at Martinsville. Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Denny Hamlin marched his way to the Busch Light Pole Award for the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway on Saturday, March 28.

The event’s starting lineup was determined through a single-car, two-lap qualifying format. In the format, all 37 competitors vying for 37 starting spots cycled around Martinsville Speedway twice while attempting to post the fastest lap. The competitor who posted the fastest single lap was awarded the pole position.

During the qualifying session, Hamlin, who was the third-fastest competitor earlier on Saturday in practice, clocked in his fastest lap at 98.241 mph in 19.275 seconds. The lap was enough for the three-time Daytona 500 champion from Chesterfield, Virginia, to claim the top-starting spot at his home track.

With the pole, Hamlin notched his 49th NASCAR Cup Series career pole, which moves in sole possession of 10th place on the all-time poles list. The pole was also his first of the 2026 season and his fifth at Martinsville, with his previous at the track dating back to October 2019. And, it was also the fourth of this season for Toyota and the second for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Hamlin is a six-time Cup race winner at Martinsville, with his latest occurring a year ago in the spring. For Sunday’s main event, he will attempt to tie Rusty Wallace for the fourth-most Martinsville victories at seven.

“Hats off to the whole Bob’s Discount Furniture team,” Hamlin said on Prime Video. “The car was good today. I did a lot of really good things in practice and I was hoping it would get somewhere in that top eight for qualifying.” He continued, saying, “I was really concentrated on hitting my marks, doing what I needed to do. And, I thought that the track had a 2-0 in it. How to do it all over again? I thought I could, but it was good enough, and (the team) did a great job with the adjustments. Certainly, that’s gonna be a great place to start.”

Hamlin will share the front row with William Byron, the latter of whom is a three-time Martinsville winner and won last year’s fall event. Byron, who won the spring Martinsville events in 2022 and 2024, posted his fastest lap at 97.957 mph in 19.331 seconds.

“Yeah, I feel good,” Byron said. “I feel like not a lot has changed, so you know, for us, it’s just really trying to build on what we did here last fall and what we did at Bowman Gray. The tire is the same, but the horsepower is different, so just try to understand that in practice, how much that’s going to feel different.

“But yeah, I love coming here. It’s always a battle with these two tracks back-to-back, Darlington and Martinsville, I was thinking on the way up here. Just tough places, so just got to be ready and do a good job.”

Josh Berry, Ty Gibbs and Shane van Gisbergen will start in the top five, respectively, while Austin Cindric and Carson Hocevar qualified sixth and seventh, respectively. Tyle Reddick, the series’ points leader and last weekend’s winner at Darlington Raceway, will start in eighth place after he posted his lap at 97.729 mph in 19.376 seconds. Joey Logano and Chase Elliott complete the top-10 starting grid.

Notably, Bubba Wallace, who was the fastest competitor in practice, qualified in 15th place at 97.382 mph in 19.445 seconds. In addition, Brad Keselowski, who is scheduled to become the 35th competitor to achieve 600 Cup starts for Sunday’s main event and is coming off a strong runner-up result at Darlington, will start in 23rd place at 97.018 mph in 19.518 seconds. Lastly, Justin Allgaier, who is making his third start as a interim competitor for Alex Bowman and the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entry, will start in 21st place at 97.093 mph in 19.503 seconds.

With 37 competitors vying for 37 starting spots, all made the main event.

Martinsville – Qualifying Position, Best Speed, Best Time:

  1. Denny Hamlin, 98.241 mph, 19.275 seconds
  2. William Byron, 97.957 mph, 19.331 seconds
  3. Josh Berry, 97.941 mph, 19.334 seconds
  4. Ty Gibbs, 97.921 mph, 19.338 seconds
  5. Shane van Gisbergen, 97.916 mph, 19.339 seconds
  6. Austin Cindric, 97.855 mph, 19.351 seconds
  7. Carson Hocevar, 97.795 mph, 19.363 seconds
  8. Tyler Reddick, 97.729 mph, 19.376 seconds
  9. Joey Logano, 97.664 mph, 19.389 seconds
  10. Chase Elliott, 97.649 mph, 19.392 seconds
  11. Christopher Bell, 97.618 mph, 19.398 seconds
  12. Ryan Blaney, 97.463 mph, 19.429 seconds
  13. Kyle Larson, 97.448 mph, 19.432 seconds
  14. Zane Smith, 97.387 mph, 19.444 seconds
  15. Bubba Wallace, 97.382 mph, 19.445 seconds
  16. Chris Buescher, 97.377 mph, 19.446 seconds
  17. Ryan Preece, 97.342 mph, 19.453 seconds
  18. Ross Chastain, 97.322 mph, 19.457 seconds
  19. Erik Jones, 97.177 mph, 19.486 seconds
  20. Michael McDowell, 97.133 mph, 19.495 seconds
  21. Justin Allgaier, 97.093 mph, 19.503 seconds
  22. Daniel Suarez, 97.068 mph, 19.508 seconds
  23. Brad Keselowski, 97.018 mph, 19.518 seconds
  24. Cole Custer, 96.959 mph, 19.530 seconds
  25. Connor Zilisch, 96.929 mph, 19.536 seconds
  26. Riley Herbst, 96.805 mph, 19.561 seconds
  27. Chase Briscoe, 96.800 mph, 19.562 seconds
  28. AJ Allmendinger, 96.721 mph, 19.578 seconds
  29. Todd Gilliland, 96.671 mph, 19.588 seconds
  30. Austin Dillon, 96.489 mph, 19.625 seconds
  31. Noah Gragson, 96.366 mph, 19.650 seconds
  32. John Hunter Nemechek, 96.298 mph, 19.664 seconds
  33. Ricky Stenhouse Jr., 96.239 mph, 19.676 seconds
  34. Kyle Busch, 96.097 mph, 19.705 seconds
  35. Cody Ware, 96.029 mph, 19.719 seconds
  36. Ty Dillon, 95.830 mph, 19.760 seconds
  37. Austin Hill, 95.055 mph, 19.921 seconds

The 2026 Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway is scheduled to occur on Sunday, March 29, and air at 3:30 p.m. ET on FS1, MRN Radio, SiriusXM and HBO MAX.

CHEVROLET NCS AT MARTINSVILLE: William Byron Media Availability Quotes

By
Official Release
-

NASCAR CUP SERIES
MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY
TEAM CHEVY DRIVER QUOTES
MARCH 28, 2026

William Byron, driver of the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, met with the media in advance of the NASCAR Cup Series practice and qualifying session at Martinsville Speedway. The Charlotte, North Carolina, native is a three-time Martinsville winner in NASCAR’s top division, including the series’ most recent appearance at the track in October 2025.

Media Availability Quotes:

William, you’ve won three times here at Martinsville, including a clean sweep last October. How are you feeling going in tomorrow?

“Yeah, I feel good. I feel like not a lot has changed, so you know, for us, it’s just really trying to build on what we did here last fall and what we did at Bowman Gray. The tire is the same, but the horsepower is different, so just try to understand that in practice, how much that’s going to feel different.

But yeah, I love coming here (Martinsville). It’s always a battle with these two tracks back-to-back, Darlington and Martinsville, I was thinking on the way up here. Just tough places, so just got to be ready and do a good job.”

How do you evaluate where the team is so far overall? Obviously, for you guys on the 24 team, you have three straight top 10s and you guys have shown speed, but the team still being winless so far this season. Where do you feel like the 24 team and Hendrick Motorsports stand?

“Yeah, I think we’re executing well on race days. I feel like our pit stops have been pretty solid, but could be quicker on pit road. I feel like our starting balance on Saturdays has been off and I think that’s been throwing us for a curveball, particularly at Phoenix and Darlington, with the short-track package. So I feel like that was an adjustment. I feel like Las Vegas went pretty much according to plan and we had a lot of strength there. You saw three of our cars be in the top-five for most of the race, and we had a shot to win that race. Still just a touch off the 11 car (Denny Hamlin) there. But then, you have the superspeedways.

The road course was kind of similar to Phoenix in that sense, that we were a little bit off on balance. So I think we need to do a better job on balance on Saturdays so that we’re not guessing so much for Sundays. Some of that could be obviously the new body, but also just tire changes and things of that nature. We need to do a better job of utilizing our tools and getting closer to unload so that we’re not guessing so much.

Yeah, that’s kind of how I see it. You know, if we have smoother Saturdays, we qualify better and we don’t have so many question marks going in Sunday, we’ll probably have a better weekend.”

You have been good both here (Martinsville) in the spring and the fall, but there is some kind of a difference between two races, in terms of who is strong and who is good. Why the difference?

“Yeah, I mean it’s similar at every racetrack, really, but I feel like it’s probably noticeable here (Martinsville) with the short-track and just tire wear. But I feel like the balance of the track is different, and because of that, you have some tendencies in your driving style that are unique. I think this place probably changes the least, but it just seems like the amount of time that goes by between this race and the fall race is just so big that there’s probably a lot of time for development and that’s probably why you see different guys be good by the fall. You know, sometimes if you’re good here (at Martinsville) in the spring, you kind of rest on that and try to bring it back, but you’re not as good. We’ve lived that. I feel like it’s better to live the song and dance of like – hey, you’re pretty good in the spring and then you come back here in the fall and you put it all together.”

Do you have to change your driving style for the two races? Some tracks, you don’t have to, but here, do you have to modify?

“There are some little differences. I feel like the fall race, the fall-off is typically a little higher, so there’s a little bit more tire wear. So there’s some little differences, but I feel most of it is in car setup and just kind of what your approach is. So yeah, for some reason the track is just a little bit different here in the spring versus the fall.”

Earlier this week, NASCAR said they’re kind of looking at considering using the 750-horsepower package at intermediate tracks, possibly next year. I’m just curious, what do you think the overall effect on the racing would be if they went in that direction?

“I don’t know. I think our intermediate package is pretty good right now. I feel like it puts on a pretty good race. I mean, at Las Vegas, I just think about how we were three-wide for the lead for multiple laps and that’s hard to recreate. So I feel like the intermediate package is good the way it is. I’ll be honest, I thought last week had less grip. I thought it was a good thing in that sense of tire fall off, but it was not easier to pass. If anything, the wake behind other cars was worse. I think there’s still work to do on that, so with that being said, I don’t think the power is a bad thing, but I don’t necessarily think the wake behind the cars last week with the short-track aero was any better.”

I know, obviously, it’s early in the season, but we’re six going on seven races in. Do you notice people racing any differently because of the change in the championship format?

“Yeah, that’s a great question. I think I do. I notice guys are just a little more protective of their finish, which I feel like in the past, you have maybe some more issues in stage three where guys have issues and they don’t finish as well. So I think there’s more emphasis on finishing well, but goes with that is stage points because, like you know last year, we had a really good start to the season. We scored a lot of stage points. This year, we’re not scoring as many stage points and we’re not as high up in the points. So I think there’s more of an emphasis on finishing the race strong, but I still think with stage points, you can’t overcome not having a good couple stages, and so the guys scoring a lot of points might still not finish as well, but they’re just scoring throughout the weekend on the stages.”

What are your thoughts about racing at Bristol and what stands out about racing at Bristol?

“It’s not really been my favorite place. I feel like it just hasn’t been great, result-wise. I think it’s just really fast-paced. The way you kind of load up into the banking with the concrete is very unique and just really hurts the tires if you’re a little bit off. So I think just finding a good rhythm there, where you can make speed but not damage your tires. It really depends on the weather on how much tire wear we’re going to have. So if it’s 70 degrees and sunny, it’s no big deal… you’re going to be able to run the top of the racetrack. If it’s 60 degrees or below and cloudy, it’s probably going to be a high tire wear race.”

How much stock should we put into what we see tomorrow (at Martinsville), as far as trying to see who has what on a short track, considering that there is the higher horsepower in play?

“Yeah, I would say a lot of stock. I mean, if you’re good here tomorrow, you’re probably going to be good at the other short-tracks. Bristol is different, so I don’t think it really is an indicator for there. But the other places — North Wilkesboro and Richmond comes to mind. If you’re good here, you’ll probably be pretty good at those other places. I’d say the majority of our tracks are going to be the mile-and-a-halves, so you need to be good here because it’s an important time of the year, but there’s really not many of these until you know, middle of the summer to late fall.”

What do you remember from your first trip here 10 years ago? I think it was your first track you’d ever gone to as a NASCAR fan…

“Yeah, it was actually like 22 years ago, Bryon said. “I’m getting old (Byron laughs). I’m 28 now, but I think I came here when I was six. But yeah, I just remember playing with the slot cars out in the parking lot. Where they have the parking lot now, it used to be the fan zone. But I just remember playing with the slot cars and just getting in the stands. We were probably about 20 rows up. I just remember the engines firing up and just as soon as that happened, I just had this energy and I was like – man, I love this.

“I’d already watched a lot of races on TV, so I kind of knew what I was looking for. But for some reason,” Byron said, “I just remember the launch off turn two (at Martinsville). You could see — I think it was Tony Stewart and Jamie (McMurray) were running well that day and Tony ended up winning the race. But the way they got off turn two was just really important, at least for my seat, so just remember that. I came back for many races. I remember Dale Jr. and Kevin Harvick going at it the one year. I thought Dale had been on kind of a winless streak and so the fans were really pulling for him, and then Kevin passed him with like six laps to go and that was not a super popular win.

But yeah, I remember those two races. And then, I came here with Stefan Parsons, my good buddy, and sat on the pit box with him and Phil and watched their car go around here. And then, I think that was the year that Jeff Gordon won, not his last race, but like the 2013 race, I think it was. The cars had a lot of power back then, so you could see him kind of light up the tires on exit of the corner. So yeah, a lot of cool races here. It’s close to home, so here and Darlington, they’re kind of my favorite tracks.”

Do you have anything planned for the off-weekend?

“No, not yet. I’m not a planner, so I need to figure that out. My friends have been bugging me about it and trying to figure something out, but I just need to get through the weekend and see where I’m at.”

You mentioned pit stop performance… is that something you’re reviewing on a regular basis? Are you contributing or are you asking for changes? How does that work… is that just a coach’s thing?

“No, I think we have a really we have a really strong team, so I think it’s just looking at some of your stats and looking at just the general performance,” Byron explained. “How it can get in the pit stall, how it can be more effective on our rolling time. It’s a whole equation; it’s not just the pit stop. I think it’s pit stall selection. We haven’t qualified as well, so we haven’t had the best, like top-five or six pit stalls, so we need to do better there to have cleaner ins and outs. But you know, try to just continue to get a couple tenths here and there on the pit stop itself. I think trying to be as quick as we can be, especially when we have track position, we have an opportunity to capitalize and gain a spot inside the top-five because I feel like those spots are a lot harder to come by on-track, as well.”

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future.

GM Motorsports, including the Cadillac Formula 1® Team develops and proves advanced technologies in the most demanding environments, accelerating innovation in performance, safety, efficiency, and electrification for its production vehicles. Cadillac Racing is one of the leading manufacturers in the IMSA and FIA World Endurance Championships (WEC). Chevrolet competes in single seaters in the US IndyCar series, and in NASCAR with multiple team partners and drivers. Corvette customer teams compete in GT series across the globe including IMSA and WEC. Learn more at GM.com.

Alex Palou: Second in points ‘doesn’t change anything at all’

By
Tucker White
-
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - MARCH 27: Alex Palou, driver of the #10 Chip Ganassi Racing DHL Honda, speaks to reporters prior to the NTT IndyCar Series Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix at Barber Motorsports Park on March 27, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama. Photo: Paul Hurley/Penske Entertainment

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Alex Palou spoke to a throng of reporters gathered on the balcony of the media center, Friday, at Barber Motorsports Park. The driver of the No. 10 Chip Ganassi Racing Honda finds himself in a position he’s not been in for over two years.

Off the top of the points standings.

After winning the season opener at St. Petersburg, wrecking out early at Phoenix Raceway and losing out to Kyle Kirkwood on the streets of Arlington, Texas, the four-time series champion enters the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix second in points.

And what does that change about his strategy, going forward?

“Nothing,” he said. “Doesn’t change anything at all.”

“If we were on the last two races, it would maybe change a little bit, but it’s still so early on. We just need to win as many races as we can.”

And what better place to win than a track where he’s the defending race winner. He led 81 of 90 caution-free laps from the pole to score his third victory of the 2025 NTT INDYCAR Series season, on his way to a third-consecutive championship.

If any driver has had Palou’s number since 2025, it’s Kirkwood. In addition to the aforementioned Arlington, Texas, race, he bested him on the streets of Long Beach, California, the streets of Detroit and on the oval at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois.

Of course, 26 points is by no means insurmountable.

“I think we’re in a great spot, but it still doesn’t mean anything, yet,” he said. “But the point swings are crazy right now because it’s so early on. So yeah, we just need to focus on winning this weekend.”

Kirkwood, however, bested him in first practice, Friday, with a lap of 1:08.146 (third fastest). While Palou clocked in fourth. Saturday, however, Palou topped the chart in second practice with a lap of 1:06.468. Kirkwood clocked in second fastest.

Do Wheel Spacers Affect Wheel Alignment?

By
SM
-

Drivers looking for a wider stance often use wheel spacers to achieve this. They push wheels further out from the hub to increase the track width. This change improves the appearance of the car and improves driving performance. Many drivers use spacers for a more aggressive fit and better cornering stability.

But a fair question after installation is, do wheel spacers affect alignment? If you want to install wheel spacers, Orion Motor Tech offers reliable hub-centric spacers. Knowing how the spacers affect your alignment helps you avoid unnecessary installation costs. To avoid more confusion, let’s go.

Do Wheel Spacers Actually Change Alignment Angles?

No, wheel spacers don’t directly change your alignment. Your alignment angles, which are camber, toe, and caster, are controlled by your suspension geometry. Things like your tie rods, control arms, and suspension mounting points are what actually handle all of that. 

A spacer only moves the wheel outward; it doesn’t touch any of that. So technically, your alignment stays the same after installing spacers. However, a few things can make it feel otherwise. That’s where drivers often get confused.

What Wheel Spacers Do Affect

Spacers don’t mess with your alignment angles directly. But they do change a few things close to it. These changes are worth understanding before you install them.

Scrub Radius

Spacers push the wheel further out from the hub. This changes the scrub radius. The gap between where the tire touches the ground and the line of the steering axis. You may notice more kickback over bumps and a slightly heavier steering feel.

Wheel Bearing Load

It’s similar to using a longer wrench for extra leverage. The further out the wheel sits, the more leverage it puts on the bearings and ball joints. Small spacers up to 15mm create minimal extra stress. But thicker spacers increase that load more noticeably over time.

Why Drivers Mistake This for an Alignment Problem

On installing spacers, many drivers assume a malfunctioning alignment because the vehicle feels different. Usually, that’s not the actual issue because after installing spacers, the vehicle’s track width alters how the vehicle behaves when turning, causing it to feel different. The alignment, however, has not moved. Some drivers also feel shaking in the steering wheel and assume that is an alignment problem.

In fact, the vehicle shaking is more likely the result of insufficient centering of the hub or an imbalance in the wheel. It’s not an alignment problem; it’s a fitment issue. Also, spacers are usually blamed when vehicle tires show uneven wear, but the problem is usually an alignment issue that existed before the tires. Alignment problems are often worsened by spacers.

When Should You Get an Alignment Check?

Not every spacer install needs an alignment check. In most cases, a proper hub-centric fit keeps everything in spec. But there are specific situations where checking alignment makes good sense.

You Probably Don’t Need One If:

  • You only installed hub-centric spacers
  • The car drives straight without pulling
  • The steering wheel sits centered
  • Tire wear looks even across the tread

You Should Book One If:

  • You also changed coilovers or control arms
  • The car hit a pothole or curb recently
  • You notice pulling, drifting, or uneven wear
  • Something just feels off after the install

Does Spacer Thickness Matter?

Yes, thickness matters a great deal. Each spacer’s thickness influences your vehicle’s handling and the mechanical influence given spacing. Thin spacers (5mm – 10mm) have a small effect on the vehicle’s handling. Regarding the cutoff limit, from 10mm to 15mm, you can expect some slight but noticeable changes.

Thick spacers above 15mm put more leverage on your bearings, so an alignment check becomes more important. You may also need longer wheel studs to keep safe thread engagement.

Key things to consider before purchasing wheel spacers 

Most of the issues that come up later can be minimized by purchasing appropriate spacers. Quality and correct fitment of materials lessens the price of the parts. These are the key points you should pay attention to:

  • Hub-centric design
  • Forged aluminum (6061-T6 or 7075-T6)
  • Correct bolt pattern and bore size
  • Reasonably thickness
  • Clean installation (torqued to specification and an additional torque after 50–100 miles)

Most problems with poor fitment and spacers are a result of poor fitment, and with a combination of high quality parts and proper installation, almost all problems can be avoided.

Conclusion

Wheel spacers do not affect camber, toe, or caster, but do influence scrub radius and bearing load. Proper installation of hub-centric spacers means that your alignment won’t suffer. Many people assume the worst when feeling a change. This is why an alignment check is critical. Make sure to get spacers that fit your vehicle’s specific bolt pattern and hub bore diameter. Misalignment is the cause of most spacer and alignment problems.

TEAM CHEVY INDYCAR FRIDAY PRACTICE – Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix

By
Official Release
-

CHEVROLET IN THE NTT INDYCAR SERIES
Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix
2.3-mile, 17-turn Barber Motorsports Park natural terrain road course
Birmingham, Alabama
Friday Practice Report
March 27, 2026

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (March 27, 2026) – Scott McLaughlin, this weekend in the No. 3 Odyssey Battery Team Penske Chevrolet, led the third straight opening practice on a road or street course to start the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES. The Kiwi’s best lap of 67.3840 seconds (122.878 mph) on the Alternate Firestone Firehawk racing tires (Red) was the quickest of six Team Chevy drivers among the eight quickest drivers. Pato O’Ward in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, Christian Lundgaard in the No. 7 VELO Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, David Malukas in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet, Josef Newgarden in the No. 2 PPG Team Penske Chevrolet and Rinus VeeKay in the No. 76 Juncos Hollinger Chevrolet. joined McLaughin.

“Pretty good start for us on the Odyssey Battery Chevy,” said McLaughlin after practice. “We were all strong, which is a good sign for the team. We’ve done a lot of hard work in the off-season to figure out where we can be better. We’ve still got a lot to learn and be better at and stronger. Overall a pretty good start for us. Bring on tomorrow.”

McLaughlin, a two-time winner on the 2.3-mile, 17-turn natural terrain road course in 2023 and 2024, was also the quickest at 68.0903 seconds (121.603mph) on the Primary Firstone Firehawk racing tires (Black) during the first 40 minutes of the first practice, with all 25 drivers on track. Malukas, O’Ward, Newgarden and Lundgaard were the Chevrolet-powered drivers on the Blacks.

Lundgaard, with a lap of Barber Motorsports Park at 67.4379 seconds (122.780mph), led the first 12-minute session on the Reds, with Malukas the second quickest.

“I’ve always liked this place since the first time I came here in (20)22. Technically in (20)21 this is the place I did my first INDYCAR test. I’ve always liked the place. I felt like that wasn’t in the bag today. On the primaries, we didn’t really have pace. I think the track is very different to what it was last year. With the new alternates, we’re trying to figure it out, and we got it right. Which is nice from here. Hopefully we can get the No. 7 VELO Arrow McLaren Chevrolet in victory lane on Sunday.”

Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix Friday Practice Results:

NTT INDYCAR SERIES News Conference
Friday, March 27, 2026
Christian Lundgaard
Press Conference

THE MODERATOR: Good afternoon. Wrapping up practice ahead of Sunday’s race, Christian Lundgaard finished second here last year. P1 in Group A today.

Something about this track you like, Christian?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: I mean, I’ve always loved this place. This was my first-ever INDYCAR test back in ’21. I’ve had some good results. Also had some less good ones.

I think it’s trending in the right direction looking at the last couple years. It’s nice to obviously start the weekend kind of good off the trucks.

I didn’t really think that pace was in the car throughout our entire primary run. Pretty positively surprised, I would say.

THE MODERATOR: Looked like Pato was pretty good out there. Maybe the start of a good weekend for Arrow McLaren?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Yeah, we were pretty competitive last year. The 10 car had some race pace on the field. The 3 car has always been strong here in the past. He was dominating in I guess that was ’23 or ’24. Obviously that’s the pace that we’re trying to find.

Again, I didn’t really think we had it in the beginning of practice. It looks like the alternates are a little stronger than I anticipated those being.

THE MODERATOR: Open it up for questions.

Q. To go a little bit more into the fact you were surprised, why did you not think you had the pace? Was there a sector that you expected to be better in?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: I mean, we were only fast on the alternates. We weren’t fast on the primaries. Obviously Pato was a lot faster than we were. That’s really where the surprise was, the shift from alternates to primaries on the 7 car. Every time I’d come into the box, I’d be like I don’t know where I’m going to find half a second. Put on the alternates and there it was.

Q. Obviously the team is falling upon something that works pretty good. What do you do to nail it down tomorrow in qualifications?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Yeah, I mean, I think the one focus on the 7 car for this weekend is just execution. I don’t think we need to try to find a lot of pace. I think we just need to go out there and execute. Qualifying has been a struggle for us this year. We’ve been good on Sundays.

I think for us it’s see if we can get into the Firestone Fast Six. We weren’t last year. Nolan was in last year. I think that’s really where we need to gain some ground to be able to fight for the win.

Q. You said you were good on the alternates. Last year it seemed like it was an alternate race. Do you anticipate the same? Shouldn’t you be fine if you’re good on the alternates?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Yeah, we still have to do a stint on the primes. That’s where the 10 car has always been strong. I think we’ve seen multiple occasions where the 10 car chooses primes over alternates.

I think that was more in reference to today. I didn’t feel good on the primes. Balance was decent. Definitely some stuff to work on. I didn’t really see where I was going to find half a second or 7/10ths that we were missing at the time.

I think we nailed balance for the alternates. Obviously we’re in Group 1. Group 2 went a little faster. On outright pace we’re right there on the alternates. I think that’s definitely a positive. I think we need to find a little bit for the race.

Q. It will be cooler for the race. Do you have to be cautious about how you analyze today?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Yes and no. I think you always have to take it with a grain of salt. I think that’s what’s tough, but also why I enjoy INDYCAR in general, is the different conditions you have throughout a weekend from practice one to warm-up to the race. Warm-up is never the same as the race. You always have to adapt on the fly.

I think that’s just a great challenge for all of us. More often I think we’ve hit it right. There’s definitely also cases where we haven’t hit it. I think it’s because it changes throughout the weekend where you have at least some references.

Q. We’ve heard Pato a couple times this year talk about holding that consistency, not have almost a disastrous race. Even though he hasn’t won or been on the podium, he’s consistently been fourth or fifth. Do you take that similar mindset, someone who doesn’t want to be near the bottom half of the field, to give yourself a chance long-term in the championship race?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Yeah, I can promise you right now we’re not aiming at finishing fourth or fifth, right? Those are good points, but we’re trying to win every single race.

Q. Can you explain the impact and the influence that Ryan Hunter-Reay has had?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: I mean, having him around, obviously he comes with a lot of credibility coming into the team. Obviously for him I think it’s more learn how we operate versus bring some stuff to the table. Of course, he has for the ovals. I think we’re all excited for the open test to see how he’s going to get on and what we can learn from him.

Yes, I mean, it’s great. He’s a great guy.

Q. Second last year. Did well in practice today. How different is your setup this year?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Pretty much the exact same (smiling). I mean, obviously we’re trying things in session. There’s things that we’re adapting on the fly. I mean, us on the 7, we strongly believe don’t change what’s working.

Again, we do know we need to find some time to the 10 car, at least from last year. I do feel like it’s nice to see he wasn’t as competitive as he has been in the past right out the gate. I think this race last year was one of his absolute strongest weekends. I’m not going to sit here and say he’s on the back foot. At least seeing the result of P1, it gives us a little bit of hope, I think.

Q. With three races back to back to back, week off, this race, is it difficult to compartmentalize each race so you’re not doing multiple things at the same time?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Absolutely. But I think that’s life, really. You always get stuff thrown at you. I think we’ve done well in some areas trying to figure those things out.

But it’s also difficult to really focus. If you’re really good in the race, what do you really need to focus on throughout a weekend. We’ve struggled in qualifying, so that’s where we’ve been putting our focus on. It’s easy to lose track of some of the other areas, which is nice to have a weekend off, obviously regroup, refresh. Obviously come back to Barber where we’ve been strong in the past.

Q. You spoke that there are some things that you have going right, such as the balance. With the speed that McLaren also showed in practice, how confident are you feeling that by Saturday and qualifying you can get everything sorted out to maximize what you can do this weekend?

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: I mean, just judging how we executed the alternate run in practice, I think we’re right about there. Obviously we’re still going to improve. But so is every other car on the grid. Some cars are going to hit it. Some cars are going to miss it. I think that’s just the nature of the game.

As a team, I think we have three good foundations on all three cars. We’re going to take the best of ’em and put ’em on for qualifying for all three of us.

THE MODERATOR: Christian, thanks for coming up. Good start to the weekend.

CHRISTIAN LUNDGAARD: Thank you.

Tune-In Guide

Saturday

NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 11am (ET)/10am (CT)/9am (MT)/8am (PT) –FS1/ INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218
NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 2:30pm (ET)/1:30pm (CT)/12:30pm (MT)/11:30am (PT) – FS1/ INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Sunday

NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm Up – 10am (ET)/9am (CT)/8am (MT)/7am (PT) –FS1/ INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218
Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix (90 laps) – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FOX/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Chevrolet History at Barber Motorsports Park

Chevrolet Wins – 9

2024 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske

2023 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske

2022 – Pato O’Ward – Arrow McLaren

2018 – Josef Newgarden – Team Penske

2017 – Josef Newgarden – Team Penske

2016 – Simon Pagenaud – Team Penske

2015 – Josef Newgarden – ECR

2013 – Ryan Hunter-Reay – Andretti Global

2012 – Will Power – Team Penske

Chevrolet Poles – 10

2024 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske

2022 – Rinus VeeKay – ECR

2021 – Pato O’Ward – Arrow McLaren

2018 – Josef Newgarden – Team Penske

2017 – Will Power – Team Penske

2016 – Simon Pagenaud – Team Penske

2015 – Helio Castroneves – Team Penske

2014 – Will Power – Team Penske

2013 – Ryan Hunter-Reay – Andretti Global

2012 – Helio Castroneves – Team Penske

Chevrolet Podiums: 21

Driver Podiums: Josef Newgarden (4), Will Power (4), Scott McLaughlin (3), Scott Dixon (2), Helio Castroneves (2), Simon Pagenaud (2), Ryan Hunter-Reay (1), Christian Lundgaard (1), Pato O’Ward (1), Rinus VeeKay (1)

Team Podiums: Team Penske (13), ECR (3), Arrow McLaren (2), Chip Ganassi Racing (2), Andretti Global (1)

Chevrolet Laps Led: 699

Driver Laps Led: Josef Newgarden (141), Will Power (114), Simon Pagenaud (87), Helio Castroneves (73), Rinus VeeKay (58), Pato O’Ward (52), Santino Ferrucci (14), Sebastian Saavedra (11), Sebastien Bourdais (6), Scott Dixon (3), James Hinchcliffe (1)

Team Laps Led: Team Penske (455), ECR (104), Andretti Global (54), Arrow McLaren (52), KV Racing Technology (13), A.J. Foyt Racing (18), Chip Ganassi Racing (3),

Manufacturer History at Phoenix International Raceway

Wins (with competition)

9 – Chevrolet (2024, 2023, 2022, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2013, 2012)

4 – Honda (2025, 2021, 2019, 2014)

Poles (with competition)

10 – Chevrolet (2024, 2022, 2021, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012)

3 – Honda (2025, 2023, 2019)

Historical Chevrolet in the INDYCAR SERIES information

  • INDYCAR SERIES Manufacturer Championships (since 1979)
  • Chevrolet-Powered Wins in the Twin-Turbo 2.2L V6 Era (2012-present)
  • Chevrolet-Powered Wins – All-Time

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future.

GM Motorsports, including the Cadillac Formula 1® Team develops and proves advanced technologies in the most demanding environments, accelerating innovation in performance, safety, efficiency, and electrification for its production vehicles. Cadillac Racing is one of the leading manufacturers in the IMSA and FIA World Endurance Championships (WEC). Chevrolet competes in single seaters in the US INDYCAR series, and in NASCAR with multiple team partners and drivers. Corvette customer teams compete in GT series across the globe including IMSA and WEC. Learn more at GM.com.

McLaughlin Feeling Right at Home After Leading Barber Practice

By
Official Release
-

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Friday, March 27, 2026) – Barber Motorsports Park is 8,200 miles from Scott McLaughlin’s native Christchurch, New Zealand, but the track is becoming his home away from home.

McLaughlin led the opening practice for the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix powered by AmFirst on Friday, turning a top lap of 1 minute, 7.7245 seconds in the No. 3 Odyssey Battery Team Penske Chevrolet.

The picturesque, 17-turn, 2.3-mile road course at Barber has become one of McLaughlin’s best tracks in North America since he left the Supercars championship in Australia and New Zealand after three consecutive titles and joined the NTT INDYCAR SERIES full time with Team Penske in 2021. He won this race in 2023 and 2024, finished third last year and has finished sixth or better in four of his five Barber starts.

“Pretty good start for us on the Odyssey Battery Chevy,” McLaughlin said. “We were all strong, which is a good sign for the team. We’ve done a lot of hard work in the offseason to figure out where we can be better. We’ve still got a lot to learn and be better and stronger.

“Overall, a pretty good start for us. Bring on tomorrow.”

Up next is the second practice at 11 a.m. ET Saturday, followed by NTT P1 Award qualifying at 2:30 p.m. ET Saturday (FS1, FOX One, FOX Sports App, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls for both sessions). Live coverage of the 90-lap race starts at 1 p.m. ET Sunday on FOX, FOX One, the FOX Sports app and INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls.

Series leader Kyle Kirkwood was second in today’s 64-minute session, split into three groups, on a tightly packed time sheet at 1:07.4128 in the No. 28 JM Bullion/Gold.com Honda of Andretti Global. Unlike McLaughlin, Barber has not been a strong track for Kirkwood, whose best finish here is 10th in 2024.

2022 Barber winner Pato O’Ward was third at 1:07.4158 in the No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, followed by teammate Christian Lundgaard at 1:07.4379 in the No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet. David Malukas rounded out the top five at 1:07.5456 in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet.

Three-time Barber winner Josef Newgarden was sixth at 1:07.5600 in the No. 2 PPG Team Penske Chevrolet as Team Penske and Arrow McLaren combined to take five of the top six spots. Still, just .1760 of a second separated those six drivers.

Four-time series champion Alex Palou, who scored a dominant victory last season at Barber, was seventh at 1:07.6733 in the No. 10 DHL Chip Ganassi Racing Honda. Palou, who won the season opener on March 1 at St. Petersburg, trails Arlington winner and series leader Kirkwood by 26 points in the standings.

Caio Collet was the quickest of the three series rookies on the daunting, fast, flowing circuit, 21st at 1:08.2692 in the No. 4 Combitrans Amazonia Chevrolet of AJ Foyt Racing.

Rowe Jumps To Top of Barber Practice by Tiny Margin

By
Official Release
-

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Friday, March 27, 2026) – Myles Rowe needed this.

INDY NXT by Firestone veteran Rowe led the only practice for the Grand Prix of Alabama doubleheader Friday at Barber Motorsports Park, turning a top lap of 1 minute, 12.0345 seconds in the No. 99 ABEL Motorsports with Force Indy car.

Rowe entered his third season in the INDYCAR development series as a championship favorite after finishing fourth in the standings in 2025, boosted by his first two career INDY NXT victories. But this early season has been a grind, as Rowe finished seventh and 10th, respectively, in the first two races of the season and is eighth in the standings.

“Happy with P1, no doubt, especially with a couple of performances we weren’t happy with in Round 1 and Round 2,” Rowe said. “Coming into our first doubleheader weekend, it definitely makes it easier on the team knowing we have pace coming into qualifying in a weekend where we have double points (two races).

“I’m happy with the performance. Very grateful for the team, ABEL Motorsports with Force Indy, and looking forward to the rest of the weekend.”

Rowe kept the top spot by just seven 10-thousandths of a second over JM Correa, who stopped the clocks in second at 1:12.0352 in the No. 68 Cusick Morgan Motorsports entry. Josh Pierson was third at 1:12.1283 in the No. 29 Starchive Andretti car fielded by Andretti Global.

Enzo Fittipaldi, grandson of two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Emerson Fittipaldi, was fourth – and the quickest rookie – at 1:12.1869 in the No. 67 HMD Motorsports car. Lochie Hughes, the top returning driver to the series this season, rounded out the top five at 1:12.2004 in the No. 26 Andretti Global machine.

Andretti Global drivers took three of the top six spots on the speed chart, as series leader Max Taylor was sixth at 1:12.2265 in the No. 28 Susan G. Komen car.

Qualifying for the doubleheader weekend is up next at 10 a.m. ET Saturday (FS2, FOX One, FOX Sports app, INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls) on the 17-turn, 2.3-mile road course. Competition should be tight, as just .1920 of a second separated the top six drivers in today’s 45-minute practice.

Each driver’s quickest lap will set the field for the first 35-lap race at 1 p.m. ET. Each driver’s second-quickest lap sets the starting grid for the second 30-lap race at 11 a.m. ET Sunday. Live coverage of both races will be available on FS1, FOX One, the FOX Sports app and INDYCAR Radio powered by OnlyBulls.

Top 6.7 Cummins Delete Kits for Performance Gains: 2026 Guide

By
SM
-

For diesel truck owners operating in off-road or closed-course environments where emissions regulations do not apply, upgrading with a 6.7 Cummins delete kit can be one of the most effective ways to improve performance, reduce engine stress, and enhance overall driving efficiency.

While modern emissions systems are designed to meet strict environmental standards, they can often limit engine potential and lead to increased maintenance over time.

This guide explains what a delete kit includes, the top options available in 2026, and the performance gains you can expect.

What Is a Delete Kit for 6.7 Cummins (EGR, DPF, CCV)

A 6.7 Cummins delete kit is a set of aftermarket components designed to remove or bypass factory-installed emissions systems. These systems include the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), and CCV (Crankcase Ventilation).

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • EGR Delete: Stops exhaust gases from re-entering the engine, reducing carbon buildup and improving combustion efficiency.
  • DPF Delete: Removes the particulate filter, allowing exhaust gases to flow more freely and reducing backpressure.
  • CCV Delete: Prevents oil vapors from being recirculated into the intake by rerouting them to a catch can or (in off-road applications) venting them to the atmosphere, helping keep the intake system cleaner.

For improved crankcase ventilation, many truck owners opt for a 2007.5-2017 6.7 Cummins CCV filter delete, which helps minimize oil contamination and intake buildup.

Top 6.7 Cummins Delete Kits (2026)

With several options available, choosing the right delete kit for 6.7 Cummins depends on your performance goals and usage.

Best Overall: EGR Performance Delete Kits

A balanced choice known for build quality and ease of installation—ideal for most daily-driven trucks.

EGR Performance kits are widely recognized for their high-quality construction and precise fitment. They offer a balanced combination of durability, performance improvement, and ease of installation—making them ideal for most truck owners.

Reliability & Tuning: DynoVox

Strong compatibility with tuning platforms, suitable for those who want to fine-tune engine parameters.

They are a great choice for drivers who want consistent performance and the flexibility to fine-tune engine parameters.

Best for Power: RaceME Ultra

Designed for maximum horsepower and torque, best suited for performance enthusiasts with supporting upgrades.

When paired with proper tuning, it delivers aggressive horsepower and torque gains, making it a popular choice among performance enthusiasts.

For those looking for a complete upgrade solution, consider a 6.7 Cummins full delete kit, which includes all necessary components for a full emissions system removal.

Benefits of Deleting Emissions Systems on 6.7 Cummins

Removing emissions components can provide several performance and maintenance advantages:

Improve Reliability & Longevity

Eliminating EGR and DPF systems reduces soot buildup and lowers internal engine stress, helping extend engine life.

Increase Throttle Response

With fewer restrictions, the engine responds more quickly to throttle input, improving acceleration and drivability.

Power and Fuel Gains

Improved airflow and combustion efficiency can result in noticeable horsepower gains and better fuel economy under certain conditions.

Lowered EGTs (Exhaust Gas Temperatures)

Reduced backpressure helps keep exhaust temperatures lower, which is especially beneficial during towing or heavy-duty use.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Without emissions components, you avoid certain DPF- or EGR-related repairs. However, proper tuning is essential to prevent check engine lights or drivability issues.

Key Considerations for Deleting 6.7 Cummins

Before installing a delete kit, it’s important to evaluate the following factors:

Compatibility

Ensure the delete kit matches your truck’s year, model, and configuration to avoid installation or performance issues.

Transmission Tuning

Increased power output can exceed the factory transmission’s torque capacity. Upgrading valve bodies, torque converters, or installing a transmission tuner is strongly recommended to avoid premature failure.

Legality

Delete kits are not legal for on-road use in many regions due to emissions regulations. Always verify local laws before making modifications.

6.7 Cummins Expected Performance Gains

Performance improvements vary depending on the setup, tuning quality, and vehicle condition. Based on common user reports, typical gains include:

Horsepower & Torque

You can expect gains of 50 to 150 horsepower, along with significant increases in torque.

Fuel Economy

Many users report an improvement of 2–5 MPG, particularly on highway drives.

Engine Lifespan

Reducing heat and carbon buildup contributes to longer engine life and fewer mechanical issues.

Throttle Response

Faster turbo spool and improved airflow result in quicker and smoother acceleration.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Setup for 6.7 Cummins

Selecting the best 6.7 Cummins Delete Kit depends on your performance goals, budget, and how you use your truck. Whether you prioritize reliability, fuel efficiency, or maximum power, the right setup can significantly enhance your engine’s performance and longevity.

However, it’s essential to balance performance goals with legal and practical considerations. When properly configured for your intended use, a delete kit can unlock additional engine potential—but it’s essential to research local regulations and supporting upgrades before proceeding.

Benefits of Buying a Used Toyota for Sale in Houston

By
SM
-
Photo by depositphotos at https://depositphotos.com/

Buying a car is a major decision, and many drivers today are choosing used vehicles instead of brand-new ones. If you are searching for a reliable and budget-friendly option, considering a used toyota for sale houston can be a smart move. Toyota vehicles are known for their durability, strong performance, and long-lasting value, making them one of the most trusted brands in the automotive market.

Houston is a large and busy city where having a dependable car is essential. From daily commuting to weekend trips, a used Toyota can offer the reliability and comfort drivers need without stretching their budget. Here are some key benefits of buying a used Toyota in Houston.

Proven Reliability and Durability

One of the biggest reasons people choose Toyota vehicles is their reputation for reliability. Models such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, and Toyota RAV4 are well known for lasting many years with proper maintenance.

Toyota vehicles are built with high-quality engineering, and many owners report their cars running smoothly even after crossing high mileage. This durability makes buying a used toyota for sale Houston a safer choice compared to many other used cars.

More Affordable Versus New Cars

Price is one of the biggest advantages of buying a used car. New vehicles can lose a significant portion of their value within the first few years. When you buy a used Toyota, you avoid that initial depreciation while still getting a high-quality vehicle.

For buyers in Houston, this means you can often find a well-maintained Toyota with great features at a much lower price than a brand-new model. This allows you to stay within budget while still owning a dependable car.

Lower Insurance Costs

Another benefit of purchasing a used Toyota is the potential savings on insurance. Insurance premiums are often lower for used cars compared to new ones because their market value is lower.

For many drivers in Houston, especially young professionals and families, these savings can make a big difference in monthly expenses.

Wide Variety of Models Available

When looking for a used Toyota for sale in Houston, buyers will find a wide range of models available. Whether you are searching for a compact sedan, a family-friendly SUV, or a fuel-efficient commuter car, Toyota offers plenty of choices.

Popular options include the Toyota Highlander for families, the Toyota Tacoma for drivers who need a reliable truck, and the Toyota Prius for those focused on fuel efficiency. With so many options, buyers can easily find a vehicle that fits their needs and lifestyle.

Strong Resale Value

Toyota vehicles are known for holding their value better than many other brands. Even after several years of use, many Toyota models maintain strong resale value in the market.

This means that if you decide to upgrade your vehicle later, you may still get a good return on your investment. This makes a used Toyota not only a practical choice but also a financially smart one.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a used Toyota for sale in Houston can be a smart decision for drivers who want reliability, affordability, and long-term value. With their strong reputation for durability, lower purchase prices, and a wide variety of models, Toyota vehicles continue to be a popular choice among used-car buyers.

Justin Allgaier awarded O’Reilly pole at Martinsville

By
Andrew Kim
-
Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Justin Allgaier has been awarded the pole position for the NFPA 250 at Martinsville Speedway on Friday, March 27.

The event’s starting lineup was initially going to be determined through a single-car, two-lap qualifying format. In the format, all 40 competitors vying for 38 starting spots would cycle around Martinsville Speedway twice while attempting to post the fastest lap. The competitor who posted the fastest single lap would be awarded the pole position.

Friday’s qualifying session was canceled, however, due to rain. As a result, the lineup was determined through a qualifying metric formula from the NASCAR rulebook. The formula evaluated competitors’ results from the most recent O’Reilly Auto Parts Series event and the current owner’s standings. This resulted in Allgaier being awarded the pole position as he is coming off last weekend’s victory at Darlington Raceway. He is also leading the standings in both the driver’s and owner’s categories.

With the pole, Allgaier will bid for his third O’Reilly victory of the 2026 season and his second Martinsville victory after he achieved his first in October 2023. After becoming the eighth competitor to achieve at least 30 victories in the O’Reilly division, Allgaier will also attempt to tie Jack Ingram for sixth place on the all-time O’Reilly wins list.

Allgaier will share the front row with teammate and rookie Rajah Caruth, the latter of whom returns to pilot the No. 88 HendrickCars.com/JR Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro entry after he spent the previous two weekends driving for Jordan Anderson Racing.

Brandon Jones, rookie Brent Crews and Carson Kvapil will start in the top five, respectively. Sheldon Creed, rookie Corey Day, Jesse Love, Sammy Smith and Parker Retzlaff complete the top-10 starting grid.

Notably, Lee Pulliam, Andrew Patterson and Luke Baldwin will start 12th, 19th and 29th, respectively, while Myatt Snider and Ross Chastain complete the 38-car starting grid in 37th and 38th, respectively. In addition, Taylor Gray and Austin Hill, both of whom won last year’s O’Reilly events at Martinsville, will start 13th and 26th, respectively.

With 40 competitors vying for 38 starting spots, Dawson Cram and Justin Carroll were the two who did not qualify for the main event.

Martinsville – Starting lineup:

  1. Justin Allgaier
  2. Rajah Caruth
  3. Brandon Jones
  4. Brent Crews
  5. Carson Kvapil
  6. Sheldon Creed
  7. Corey Day
  8. Jesse Love
  9. Sammy Smith
  10. Parker Retzlaff
  11. Sam Mayer
  12. Lee Pulliam
  13. Taylor Gray
  14. Ryan Sieg
  15. Anthony Alfredo
  16. William Sawalich
  17. Brennan Poole
  18. Nick Sanchez
  19. Andrew Patterson
  20. Jeremy Clements
  21. Josh Bilicki
  22. Dean Thompson
  23. Jeb Burton
  24. Harrison Burton
  25. Garrett Smithley
  26. Austin Hill
  27. Patrick Staropoli
  28. Blaine Perkins
  29. Luke Baldwin
  30. Austin Green
  31. Josh Williams
  32. Ryan Ellis
  33. Joey Gase
  34. Brad Perez
  35. Kyle Sieg
  36. Lavar Scott
  37. Myatt Snider
  38. Ross Chastain

The 2026 NFPA 250 at Martinsville Speedway is scheduled to occur on Saturday, March 28, and air at 3:30 p.m. ET on the CW Network, MRN Radio and SiriusXM.

1...535455...6,648Page 54 of 6,648