NASCAR Cup Series starting lineup at Martinsville in March 2026

March 29, 2026 - 19:27

The grid is set for a classic short-track showdown as the NASCAR Cup Series prepares for the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway this Sunday afternoon. The starting lineup for the March 2026 event promises intense action from the drop of the green flag at the iconic paperclip-shaped oval.

Reigning series champion Alex Bowman will lead the field to the green, capturing the pole position with a blistering qualifying lap. He will be joined on the front row by a surging Tyler Reddick, setting the stage for an immediate battle between two of the sport's elite talents. The second row features a compelling mix of veteran savvy and youthful ambition, with former Martinsville winner Denny Hamlin lining up alongside the series' current points leader, Carson Hocevar.

Further back, several playoff hopefuls face an early challenge. Notable contenders like Ryan Blaney and William Byron will have to navigate traffic from mid-pack starting spots, ensuring aggressive moves will be necessary from the very first lap. The tight confines and demanding nature of the 0.526-mile track mean that every position on the starting grid is critical, with drivers anticipating a physical race where fenders will be used and tempers may flare. Fans are guaranteed a dramatic 400-lap battle where strategy and survival are just as important as pure speed.