HOTWHEELS CUP SERISE

RACE PREVIEW: MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY – “The Paperclip Showdown”

Track: Martinsville Speedway
Length: 0.526 miles (short track)
Laps: 500
Tire strategy + brakes + survival = the formula to win

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TOP STORYLINES TO WATCH:

1. Jim Johnson back on top:
The 2024 HotWheels Cup Series Champion silenced doubters with a blazing lap to grab the pole position. With track position crucial here, this is a big advantage for the veteran.

2. Carson Dillon surprising the field:
The rookie put down a shocking P2 lap. He’s been under the radar, but now all eyes are on the #15 team.

3. Travis Hollow continues rookie run:
Hollow’s breakout season continues—third on the grid, and confidence sky-high. He’s a threat if he can avoid early chaos.

4. Bumper-to-bumper battles incoming:
With short tempers and short-track racing, expect fireworks—especially mid-pack where names like Tarrez Martínez, Zayden Palou, and Byron Armstrong will be charging forward.

5. Pit lane pressure:
At Martinsville, pit road mistakes can cost laps. The tight pit boxes will test even the best crews under pressure.

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DRIVERS TO WATCH:
• Jim Johnson – Starting 1st | Favorite to dominate early
• Travis Hollow (R) – Starting 3rd | Rookie with speed and momentum
• Mikal Jackson – Starting 5th | Former champ with a hot car
• Bessie Hines – Starting 8th | Dark horse on short tracks
• Tarrez Martínez – Mid-pack | Look for a bold strategy
• Zayden Palou – Starting outside Top 10 | Fastest car in traffic?

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FAN POLL – WINNER PREDICTION:
• Jim Johnson – 32%
• Travis Hollow – 24%
• Mikal Jackson – 18%
• Carson Dillon – 14%
• Field – 12%