Reddick makes history with third-straight win to open season

NASCAR driver Tyler Reddick achieves a rare feat in the opening races of the 2026 season.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 4:31pm

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Tyler Reddick, a NASCAR driver, has won the first three races of the 2026 season, making history as the first driver to achieve this feat in over a decade. Reddick's latest victory came at the race in Austin, Texas.

Why it matters

Reddick's historic start to the season has put him in a strong position to contend for the NASCAR championship. His early dominance has captured the attention of racing fans and media, and could potentially lead to increased sponsorship and endorsement opportunities.

The details

Reddick, driving for Richard Childress Racing, has won the first three races of the 2026 NASCAR season, becoming the first driver to accomplish this since Jimmie Johnson in 2016. Reddick's latest victory came at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, where he held off a late challenge from fellow driver Chase Elliott to take the checkered flag.

  • Reddick won the season-opening race on February 15, 2026.
  • Reddick won the second race of the season on February 22, 2026.
  • Reddick won the third race of the season on March 1, 2026.

The players

Tyler Reddick

A 30-year-old NASCAR driver who is currently competing in his fifth full-time season in the NASCAR Cup Series. Reddick drives for Richard Childress Racing.

Chase Elliott

A 30-year-old NASCAR driver who is considered one of the top contenders for the 2026 championship. Elliott drives for Hendrick Motorsports.

Jimmie Johnson

A seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion who previously achieved the feat of winning the first three races of a season in 2016.

Richard Childress Racing

The NASCAR team that Tyler Reddick drives for, owned by former driver Richard Childress.

Hendrick Motorsports

The NASCAR team that Chase Elliott drives for, one of the most successful teams in the sport's history.

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What they’re saying

“This is an incredible accomplishment, and I'm so proud of my team for the hard work they've put in to give me such fast cars week in and week out.”

— Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Driver

“Tyler is really setting the pace early on, but we're not going to let him run away with this championship without a fight.”

— Chase Elliott, NASCAR Driver

What’s next

Reddick will look to extend his historic start to the season at the next race, scheduled for March 15, 2026 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.

The takeaway

Reddick's dominant start to the 2026 NASCAR season has put him in prime position to contend for his first career championship. His ability to win on a variety of track types has impressed the racing community and has many fans excited to see if he can keep up this historic pace.