Martinsville Speedway, located in Ridgeway, Virginia, is the shortest track on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule at 0.526 miles (0.847 km). Its distinctive paperclip shape combines long straights with tight hairpin-style corners, making it a unique challenge compared to any other oval.
Track Specs
- Length: 0.526 miles (0.847 km)
- Banking: 12° in the turns, flat straights
- Surface: Asphalt with concrete corners
- Opened: 1947
Driving Tips
- Braking Control: Martinsville is all about braking precision. Heavy braking into Turns 1 and 3 demands smooth inputs to avoid lockups.
- Corner Exit: Patience on throttle is key. Over-driving exit results in wheel spin and contact with the outside wall.
- Track Position: Passing is tough, so gaining positions on restarts and pit strategy is critical.
- Rhythm: Success comes from finding a consistent lap rhythm, balancing aggression with patience.
Martinsville in iRacing feels like its real-world counterpart: chaotic, physical, and unforgiving.
