HISTORY OF THE MARTINSVILLE MOTORSPEEDWAY

Martinsville Speedway, located in Ridgeway, Virginia, is one of the most historic and unique racetracks in NASCAR. Opened in 1947, it holds the distinction of being the oldest track still on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule. Known for its distinctive paperclip-shaped layout, the oval measures just 0.526 miles, making it the shortest track at NASCAR’s top level.

From the very first Cup race in 1949, Martinsville has been a staple of the series. Red Byron won that inaugural event, and over the decades, the track has grown into a fan favourite thanks to its tight turns, long straights, and constant bumper-to-bumper battles. Unlike larger superspeedways, Martinsville demands patience, precision, and physical racing, producing some of the most dramatic finishes in NASCAR history.

The speedway traditionally hosts two Cup Series races each year: one in the spring and one in the fall, with the autumn event forming part of the NASCAR Playoffs. That Playoff race has cemented Martinsville’s reputation as a pivotal stop in the championship fight, where tempers often flare and titles can be won or lost. Permanent lights, installed in 2017, have added to the spectacle by enabling memorable night races.

Martinsville has also seen its share of legendary performances. Richard Petty leads the all-time Cup win tally here with 15 victories, while other icons like Darrell Waltrip, Jeff Gordon, and Jimmie Johnson also built dominant records at the paperclip. In recent years, stars such as Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Joey Logano have added their names to the winners’ list.

The track’s legacy extends beyond the Cup Series. The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series and Craftsman Truck Series both bring additional action, with the tight confines often providing breakout moments for rising talents. Martinsville is also well known for its fan-friendly atmosphere and its signature concession item – the famous Martinsville hot dog, a race-day tradition for decades.