Drivers believe softer bumpers will impact NASCAR Cup race at Martinsville

We already saw one car suffer nose damage in practice, with Cody Ware unable to take part in qualifying…

By Nick DeGroot · Yahoo Sports

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 5:04 AM

Key Things to Know

NASCAR Cup Series drivers expect softened bumpers to significantly impact racing at Martinsville Speedway.
NASCAR instructed teams earlier in the season to remove foam from bumpers to make aggressive contact consequential.
Chase Briscoe warned the softer bumpers could easily cause severe radiator damage during frequent short-track collisions.

The Story in 60 Seconds

NASCAR drivers expect the series' revised short-track bumper package to significantly impact the Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway. The softened bumper structure, created by removing foam from the front and rear bumpers earlier in the year, is making its final 2026 appearance to discourage overly aggressive contact and make bumping more consequential.

Driver Chase Briscoe warned that the modification could bring back traditional radiator damage due to frequent contact at the short track. The change presents a notable challenge for drivers navigating Martinsville, where Denny Hamlin captured the pole position ahead of title rivals Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell.

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Drivers believe softer bumpers will impact NASCAR Cup race at Martinsville

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