Denny Hamlin Wins Pole for Martinsville NASCAR Race

William Byron qualifies second, Tyler Reddick starts eighth in Sunday's Cook Out 400

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:33pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a NASCAR race at Martinsville Speedway, with the cars and track broken down into overlapping planes of vibrant red, blue, and yellow colors.Hamlin's pole position sets the stage for a thrilling NASCAR race at the historic Martinsville Speedway.Martinsville Today

Denny Hamlin will start first in Sunday's Cook Out 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway after posting the fastest qualifying lap of 98.241 mph. William Byron qualified second with an average speed of 97.957 mph, while Tyler Reddick, the winner of four races so far this season, will start eighth.

Why it matters

Martinsville is one of NASCAR's most historic and challenging tracks, with its short length and tight turns testing drivers' skills. Qualifying well is crucial at this track, as passing can be difficult. Hamlin's pole position gives him an advantage as he seeks his first win of the season, while Reddick will look to continue his strong start despite a mid-pack starting spot.

The details

Hamlin, a seven-time winner at Martinsville, secured the pole with his fast lap in qualifying on Saturday. Byron, who has one win this season, will start alongside him on the front row. Reddick, the points leader, qualified eighth as he aims for his fifth victory of the year.

  • Qualifying for the Cook Out 400 took place on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
  • The Cook Out 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway is scheduled for Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Denny Hamlin

A veteran NASCAR driver with seven career wins at Martinsville Speedway, the most among active drivers.

William Byron

A rising star in NASCAR who has one win so far this season and will start on the front row alongside Hamlin.

Tyler Reddick

The current points leader in the NASCAR Cup Series, having won four of the first six races this season.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really proud of this team and the work they've put in. Martinsville is one of my favorite tracks, and I'm excited to have another shot at the win here.”

— Denny Hamlin

What’s next

The Cook Out 400 NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway is scheduled for Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET.

The takeaway

Denny Hamlin's pole position at Martinsville gives him an early advantage as he seeks his first win of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. However, with Tyler Reddick starting eighth and William Byron on the front row, the race is shaping up to be a competitive one at one of NASCAR's most historic and challenging tracks.