NASCAR Returns to Martinsville for the Cook Out 400
The NASCAR Cup Series returns to the historic Martinsville Speedway this Sunday, March 30, for the Cook Out 400. Known as the “Half-Mile of Mayhem,” this 0.526-mile short track in Ridgeway, Virginia, is renowned for its tight racing and storied history. As the seventh race of the 2025 season, it promises intense competition among the sport’s top drivers.
Track Overview: Martinsville Speedway
Martinsville Speedway, affectionately dubbed the “Paperclip” due to its unique shape, has been a staple in NASCAR since 1948. The track features long straightaways and tight, narrow turns, demanding a delicate balance between aggression and control from drivers. This configuration often leads to close-quarters racing and has been the backdrop for many memorable NASCAR moments. Legends such as Richard Petty have mastered this challenging circuit with his 15 victories. Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson have also shown their mastery with nine wins each.
Qualifying Breakdown
Qualifying for the Cook Out 400 is scheduled for Saturday, March 29, at 3:10 p.m. ET. The session will be broadcast live on Prime Video. The qualifying format at Martinsville is crucial, as starting position can significantly influence race strategy on this short track. Drivers will aim for optimal lap times to secure favorable starting spots. This is crucial given the track’s tight confines and the challenges associated with overtaking.
Drivers to Watch in the Cook Out 400
Several drivers enter the Cook Out 400 with notable momentum:
- Ryan Blaney: Driving the No. 12 Ford for Team Penske, Blaney has an impressive record at Martinsville. In 18 starts, he boasts 12 top-10 finishes and an average finish of 8.3. He has won the last two fall races at Martinsville. Blaney hasn’t finished worse than 11th at the track since October 2018. Despite a recent setback at Homestead due to a blown engine, Blaney remains a formidable contender.
- William Byron: Piloting the No. 24 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, Byron is the defending winner of the Martinsville spring race. With eight top-10 finishes in 14 starts at the track, he has quickly become a consistent favorite. Byron’s strong start to the 2025 season, including a victory at the Daytona 500, underscores his potential this weekend.
- Denny Hamlin: The driver of the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, Hamlin has five Martinsville victories to his name. In 38 starts, he has accumulated 20 top-five and 26 top-10 finishes. His last win at the track was in 2015. However, finishing fifth from a 37th starting position in the most recent Martinsville race highlights his enduring prowess.
- Josh Berry: Representing Wood Brothers Racing in the No. 21 Ford, Berry is building on recent success, including his first career win at Las Vegas on March 16. His Cup Series experience at Martinsville is limited. However, his background in short-track racing is strong. He also has three top-five finishes in Xfinity Series competition at the track, making him a driver to watch.
Odds to Win
The latest odds from MyBookie for the 2025 Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway:
- Ryan Blaney: +530
- Kyle Larson: +690
- Denny Hamlin: +790
- Chase Elliott: +800
- William Byron: +1050
- Joey Logano: +1250
- Christopher Bell: +800
These odds reflect the competitive nature of the field and the challenges posed by Martinsville’s unique layout.
*** Full Odds at the End of the Preview
How to Watch
The Cook Out 400 will take place on Sunday, March 30, at 3 p.m. ET. The race will be broadcast live on FS1, with a driver cam view available for streaming on Max. For viewers without cable, services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer FS1 in their packages. Sling TV and fuboTV also provide FS1 access.
Odds to Win the NASCAR Cook Out 400 from MyBookie
Conclusion
The NASCAR Cup Series is set to tackle Martinsville Speedway for the Cook Out 400. Fans can anticipate a thrilling display of short-track racing. Seasoned veterans team up with emerging talents. The track’s demanding nature sets the stage for an unforgettable race. Be sure to tune in to witness which driver will master the “Half-Mile of Mayhem” and capture the checkered flag.
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