Tech Section: 2026 Short-Track Package & Practice Data
The O'Reilly series utilizes the 2026 short-track aero configuration (~650-670 HP) with composite bodies and a 3-inch spoiler. Why? To reduce aerodynamic dependency and emphasize driver skill. So What? Practice results showed that "Old School" feel matters more than sim data; Lee Pulliam topped the speed charts (92.987 mph) in his debut/return, proving short-track specialists can find speed faster than series regulars on flat concrete corners.
Wet Weather Prep: NASCAR has wet weather tires (D-5164) available. Why? To avoid further delays if light mist persists. So What? If used, it will drastically change braking points on the asphalt straights.
Starting Grid: Top 10 (Metric-Based)
| Pos | No. | Driver | Manufacturer | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 7 | Justin Allgaier | Chevrolet | JR Motorsports |
| 2 | 88 | Rajah Caruth | Chevrolet | JR Motorsports |
| 3 | 20 | Brandon Jones | Toyota | Joe Gibbs Racing |
| 4 | 19 | Brent Crews | Toyota | Joe Gibbs Racing |
| 5 | 1 | Carson Kvapil | Chevrolet | JR Motorsports |
| 6 | 00 | Sheldon Creed | Chevrolet | Haas Factory Team |
| 7 | 17 | Corey Day | Chevrolet | Hendrick Motorsports |
| 8 | 2 | Jesse Love | Chevrolet | Richard Childress Racing |
| 9 | 8 | Sammy Smith | Chevrolet | JR Motorsports |
| 10 | 99 | Parker Retzlaff | Chevrolet | Viking Motorsports |
Drivers & Teams Intelligence
Lee Pulliam (#9): Proved his technical edge by leading practice. So What? Starting 12th due to the metric, his long-run pace makes him a favorite to upset the series regulars.
Luke Baldwin (#5): Making his series debut with Hettinger Racing. So What? As a multi-time Modified champion, he is accustomed to the braking demands of Martinsville but must adapt to the heavier 2026 O'Reilly car weight.
Andrew Patterson (#32): Ran the most laps in practice (73). Why? To find the "grip-gap" between the asphalt and concrete. So What? Despite being slowest in raw speed, his team now has the most data on tire fall-off.