Aric Almirola achieved victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Martinsville. This win in the DUDE Wipes 250 represents a key moment for Almirola, especially after his return following retirement from regular competition in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Almirola, at the helm of the number 20 Toyota, took the lead in a crucial stage after an overtime restart. The race concluded under yellow flag conditions after an incident in the last lap involving several competitors. This result was particularly important for Almirola, considering his history in the series, where his first victory in 2007 was always subject to certain debate. On that occasion, Denny Hamlin finished the race in his place and won, although Almirola was recognized as the winner.
Almirola expressed his joy and gratitude after the race, highlighting the significance of this victory in his career and thanking Joe Gibbs for the opportunity.
Throughout the race, Almirola was in front for 148 of the 251 laps. However, the victory was not secure until the final moments, with several changes in the leadership position. Sam Mayer, who finished second, was in the lead during the last restart. The fight for the first position was intense, with Mayer, Chandler Smith, and other drivers competing closely.
Smith finished in third position, followed by Carson Kvapil and Justin Allgaier. Shane van Gisbergen, in his debut at Martinsville, finished in 11th place.
The next race in the series will be held in Texas, where Mayer, Smith, Allgaier, and Creed will compete for the Dash 4 Cash bonus.
