For the fourth time this season, Tyler Reddick found himself in Victory Lane after climbing his way through the field multiple times at Darlington. The driver of the #45 hopes to keep that momentum rolling as NASCAR hits the tight confines of Martinsville Speedway for the 2026 Cook Out 400.
The half-mile circuit in Southwestern Virginia is sure to produce some angry drivers as the best in NASCAR battle for the checkered flag. Can Tyler Reddick find a fifth win in the young 2026 season, or will another driver claim victory?
Let’s dive in.
2026 Cook Out 400 Entry List
Joining the 36 chartered entries for Martinsville will be Austin Hill in the #33 for Richard Childress Racing. Hill and fellow RCR Xfinity Series driver Jesse Love will make multiple starts in the third RCR entry this season.
Justin Allgaier remains behind the wheel of the #48 in relief duty for Alex Bowman.
A half-mile race track where every inch is earned. pic.twitter.com/edFbxZ7EsJ
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 24, 2026
Short track racing continued to leave fans wanting in 2025, but NASCAR hopes to put forth a better product on these circuits in 2026, beginning with Martinsville. However, unlike last week at Darlington, the 750hp package is not new this season for Martinsville. I’d expect some degree of tire fall off to play a role, but passing is going to be extremely difficult on Sunday. That inevitably means drivers will have to get aggressive with the bumpers in order to work their way through the field.
2026 Cook Out 400 Race Predictions
As the race rolls on this Sunday, expect tempers to rise among the drivers. The proverbial chrome horn is going to be used often, especially as we get into the later stages. Track position is going to be of the utmost importance, so keep an eye on who qualifies well and is able to avoid pit road mistakes that get them mired back in the pack.
Though it was an exhibition race, Ryan Preece claimed victory in the Clash at Bowman Gray – the track most comparable to Martinsville so far this season. I’d expect the driver of the #60 to be a factor on Sunday, as his modified experience also helps him on tracks like Martinsville.
A short track in the spotlight. pic.twitter.com/PZJlVdPK9X
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 27, 2026
However, Denny Hamlin remains a force to be reckoned with at Martinsville and claimed victory here in the Spring last year. I have to go with Hamlin to take the checkered flag for the second time this year.
If you’re looking elsewhere in the field for a winner, don’t be surprised if Ryan Blaney or Chase Elliott work their way into contention over the course of the race. Both drivers have had strong runs here in the past.
Check out the schedule below so you don’t miss any on-track action for the remainder of the weekend.
Friday 03/27
NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Practice – 3:30 p.m. CT on the CW App
NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Qualifying – 4:35 p.m. CT on the CW App
Virginia is for Racing Lovers 200 (NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour) – 6:00 p.m. CT on FloRacing
Saturday 03/28
NASCAR Cup Series Practice – 11:30 a.m. CT on Prime
NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying – 12:40 p.m. CT on Prime
NFPA 250 (NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) – 2:30 p.m. CT on the CW
Sunday 03/29
Cook Out 400 (NASCAR Cup Series) – 2:30 p.m. CT on FS1 and HBO Max
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