NASCAR Cup - Richmond

The Cook Out 400 brings NASCAR Cup Series racing to Richmond Raceway for a premier short track competition. This 2026 race showcases high-speed action on one of the most challenging oval circuits in professional stock car racing. Richmond Raceway hosts a full NASCAR weekend, with the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series racing the day before the Cup Series event. The venue delivers a true short track experience that tests driver skill and car performance.

Richmond Raceway Circuit Details

Richmond Raceway operates as a D-shaped oval short track measuring 0.750 miles in length. The asphalt surface features 14 degrees of banking in the turns, 8 degrees on the frontstretch, and 2 degrees on the backstretch. This configuration creates unique racing dynamics that separate Richmond from other tracks on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule.

The facility sits between I-95 and I-64 in Richmond, Virginia, and spans approximately 575 acres. The track complex functions as a multipurpose venue covering 1,000 acres total. Richmond runs all its NASCAR events under the lights, providing optimal racing conditions and atmosphere. A modern video scoring tower keeps fans informed throughout each race.

Technical Specifications for 2026

NASCAR implements significant technical changes for the 2026 season at short tracks. The Cup Series cars will run with increased horsepower from 670 to 750 at tracks under 1.5 miles, including Richmond. The short track rules package features a three-inch rear spoiler and reduced diffuser strakes to promote competitive racing.

New safety measures require permanent A-post flaps on all cars to prevent flips. The surface underneath each flap must display bright orange coloring for visibility. These specifications apply to every race in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.

Manufacturer Changes

The 2026 season brings manufacturer shifts in the garage. Haas Factory Team and Rick Ware Racing switch from Ford to Chevrolet. Chevrolet introduces a new body style for the ZL1 model. These changes create fresh competition dynamics across the NASCAR Cup Series field at Richmond and other venues.

Track History and Legacy

Richmond Raceway opened on October 11, 1946, with its first automobile races held the following day. NASCAR Cup Series racing arrived at the track in April 1953. The facility began as a 0.5-mile dirt track before receiving asphalt paving in 1968. Track officials reconfigured the circuit to its current D-shape in 1988, creating the layout that defines Richmond racing today.

The venue hosted its first night race in September 1991, establishing a tradition that continues through the current schedule. Richmond Raceway celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026. The track has operated under several names throughout its history, including Atlantic Rural Exposition Fairgrounds, Richmond Fairgrounds Raceway, and Richmond International Raceway.

What Defines Richmond Racing

Richmond earned recognition as "America's Premier Short Track" through decades of competitive racing. The venue sold out 33 consecutive NASCAR Cup Series races, demonstrating strong fan support. Richard Petty holds the record for most wins at Richmond with 13 victories, a mark that stands as a testament to his dominance at short tracks.

The 0.750-mile distance creates close-quarters racing where drivers must balance aggression with precision. Contact between cars occurs frequently, and track position becomes critical. Richmond rewards drivers who can manage tire wear while maintaining speed through the turns. The D-shaped layout produces different characteristics in each corner, requiring constant adjustments from behind the wheel.

Night racing adds another layer to the Richmond experience. Cooler track temperatures affect grip levels and car handling throughout each run. Teams must adapt their setups accordingly, making technical decisions that can determine finishing positions. The combination of short track racing and nighttime conditions makes Richmond a unique challenge on the NASCAR Cup Series calendar.