Justin Allgaier Wins NASCAR O'Reilly Series Race at Phoenix

Allgaier holds off defending champion Jesse Love for his 29th career victory.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Justin Allgaier clawed his way back to the front of the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series field in Saturday's GOVX 200 at Phoenix Raceway after a pit road issue and held off defending series champion Jesse Love to score his first Phoenix win. Allgaier got around Love for good with 11 laps to go and drove into the desert night for his 29th career NOAPS victory.

Why it matters

This win is significant for Allgaier, who has been a consistent contender in the series but has struggled to find victory lane at Phoenix. The race also featured a battle between two of the series' top drivers, Allgaier and defending champion Jesse Love, adding to the drama and excitement.

The details

Allgaier clawed his way back to the front after a pit road issue early in the race. He was able to get around Love for the lead with 11 laps remaining and held on to take the checkered flag. Love, Carson Kvapil, Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer rounded out the top five finishers.

  • The race took place on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • Allgaier's win came on the birthday of his crew chief, Andrew Overstreet.

The players

Justin Allgaier

A veteran driver in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series who scored his 29th career victory with the win at Phoenix.

Jesse Love

The defending NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series champion who finished second to Allgaier in the race.

Andrew Overstreet

Allgaier's crew chief, who celebrated his birthday on the day of the race.

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What they’re saying

“So proud of this team. Andrew Overstreet has done a great job taking over. We had an issue on that first pit stop, and these boys rebounded. Never gets old winning.”

— Justin Allgaier (CW Sports)

“I think the only real misstep we really had was just tightening up there [at] the beginning of Stage 3. Just frustrated. If I show up to run second and collect points, obviously not why I'm here. Just beyond frustrated with myself.”

— Jesse Love (CW Sports)

What’s next

The next race in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series is scheduled for March 22, 2026 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The takeaway

Allgaier's victory at Phoenix showcases his resilience and ability to overcome adversity, as he clawed his way back to the front of the field after an early pit road issue. The battle between Allgaier and defending champion Jesse Love added to the excitement of the race and highlights the competitive nature of the series.