Chase Elliott Wins NASCAR Cup Race at Martinsville

Gamble pays off for the driver as he takes the checkered flag at the historic short track.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:21am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense action of a NASCAR race, with overlapping shapes and planes of color representing the cars, track, and energy of the competition.Elliott's late-race gamble pays off with a hard-fought victory at the historic Martinsville short track.Martinsville Today

Chase Elliott emerged victorious at the NASCAR Cup Series race held at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia, overcoming Denny Hamlin who had dominated much of the afternoon. Elliott's late-race gamble on pit strategy proved to be the decisive factor in securing the win.

Why it matters

Martinsville is one of the most iconic and challenging tracks on the NASCAR circuit, with its tight confines and unique paperclip shape. Elliott's win at this historic venue is a significant accomplishment that will boost his championship aspirations this season.

The details

For much of the race, Denny Hamlin appeared poised to claim his second straight victory after winning the previous race in Las Vegas. However, Elliott opted for a different pit strategy in the closing laps, allowing him to leapfrog Hamlin and take the lead. Despite Hamlin's best efforts to regain the top spot, Elliott was able to hold on and cross the finish line first.

  • The NASCAR Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway took place on March 29, 2026.

The players

Chase Elliott

The 30-year-old driver for Hendrick Motorsports, and the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion.

Denny Hamlin

The 40-year-old driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, a three-time Daytona 500 winner and a perennial championship contender.

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What they’re saying

“Sure is a lot of fun when days like this work out,”

— Chase Elliott

The takeaway

Elliott's victory at Martinsville showcases his ability to make strategic decisions and adapt to changing race conditions, traits that will be crucial as he continues to pursue his second NASCAR Cup Series championship.