Hendrick Motorsports earns first NASCAR victory of 2026 season

Team owner Rick Hendrick and crew chief Alan Gustafson make key strategic calls to secure win at Martinsville Speedway

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:59pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a NASCAR race at Martinsville Speedway, with the cars and track broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color in blues, reds, and grays, conveying the intensity and drama of the competition.Hendrick Motorsports' strategic mastery propels them to an early-season NASCAR victory at the historic Martinsville short track.Martinsville Today

In a thrilling race at Martinsville Speedway, the Hendrick Motorsports team and driver secured their first NASCAR Cup Series victory of the 2026 season. Team owner Rick Hendrick and crew chief Alan Gustafson made a series of critical strategic decisions that ultimately led to the win, overcoming a close challenge from other top contenders.

Why it matters

Hendrick Motorsports is one of the most successful NASCAR teams of the modern era, with a long history of championships and race wins. This early-season victory sets them up as a top contender for the 2026 title, and demonstrates the team's ability to make winning calls under pressure on race day.

The details

After Gustafson initially missed a call from Hendrick while packing for the race, he quickly returned the owner's call. The two discussed key strategy decisions throughout the event, including when to pit, fuel conservation, and managing tire wear. Their choices proved crucial in the team securing the checkered flag at the historic short track.

  • The race took place on Sunday, March 30, 2026 at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia.
  • Gustafson received Hendrick's call just before departing for the track that morning.

The players

Rick Hendrick

The owner of Hendrick Motorsports, one of the most successful NASCAR teams of the modern era.

Alan Gustafson

The crew chief for the Hendrick Motorsports team that earned the victory, making key strategic calls throughout the race.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to be aggressive and make some bold calls to get this win. Rick and I were on the same page all day, and the team executed perfectly.”

— Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief, Hendrick Motorsports

What’s next

The Hendrick Motorsports team will look to build on this early-season victory as they chase the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series championship.

The takeaway

Hendrick Motorsports' ability to make winning strategic decisions under pressure demonstrates why they remain one of the premier organizations in NASCAR. This victory sets them up as a favorite to contend for the title in 2026.