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Martinsville Today
By the People, for the People
Hendrick Motorsports earns first NASCAR win of season
Team owner Rick Hendrick and crew chief Alan Gustafson make key decisions to secure victory at Martinsville Speedway.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:01am
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NASCAR Cup Series team owner Rick Hendrick and crew chief Alan Gustafson led Hendrick Motorsports to its first victory of the 2026 season at Martinsville Speedway on Sunday. Gustafson initially ignored a call from Hendrick while preparing for the race, but then saw it was the team owner and took the advice that helped secure the win.
Why it matters
Hendrick Motorsports is one of the most successful NASCAR teams, with a long history of championships and race wins. This early-season victory sets the team up for a strong campaign and keeps them in contention for another title, which would be the 14th for the organization.
The details
Gustafson initially ignored a call from Hendrick while packing for the race at Martinsville Speedway, but then saw it was the team owner and took his advice. That guidance from Hendrick helped Gustafson and the No. 9 team make the right strategic calls throughout the race, leading to the victory.
- The race took place on Sunday, March 30, 2026 at Martinsville Speedway.
The players
Rick Hendrick
The owner of Hendrick Motorsports, one of the most successful NASCAR Cup Series teams with 13 championships.
Alan Gustafson
The crew chief for the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports team, who made the winning strategic calls based on advice from team owner Rick Hendrick.
What they’re saying
“I ignored the call at first, but then I saw it was Rick and I knew I better take it.”
— Alan Gustafson, Crew Chief, Hendrick Motorsports
What’s next
Hendrick Motorsports will look to build on this early-season victory as they chase another NASCAR Cup Series championship.
The takeaway
This win demonstrates the experience and expertise of the Hendrick Motorsports organization, as well as the strong communication and collaboration between the team owner and crew chief that allows them to make the right strategic calls to secure victories.
