Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Chase Elliott Wins Cook Out 400 Amid Caution Controversy

4/1/2026

31 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series driver, won the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville on March 29, 2026, ahead of Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series driver, who criticized the race’s numerous cautions.
Dale Earnhardt Jr., former NASCAR driver, supported Hamlin's view, saying extended cautions affect race strategy.
Hamlin argued that only Cup Series drivers with significant achievements should be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

1 of 1

Story summary

Chase Elliott, NASCAR Cup Series driver, won the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville on March 29, 2026, ahead of Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Cup Series driver, who criticized the race’s numerous cautions.
Dale Earnhardt Jr., former NASCAR driver, supported Hamlin's view, saying extended cautions affect race strategy.
Hamlin argued that only Cup Series drivers with significant achievements should be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame.