BRISTOL, Tenn. — The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series returns to Bristol Motor Speedway this spring with the potential to deliver one of the most competitive races of the season.
A stacked field includes Cup Series drivers such as defending race winner Kyle Larson and rising talent Connor Zilisch, both competing in equipment from JR Motorsports. Their presence alone adds intrigue to Saturday night’s event, but the focus for the championship picture remains on the series regulars.
At the top of that list is points leader Justin Allgaier. The 2024 series champion has opened the 2026 season in dominant fashion, recording three wins, six top-five finishes, and seven top-10s through the first eight races, along with an average finish of 6.6.
Allgaier’s history at Bristol further reinforces his status as a contender. In 26 career starts at the half-mile oval, he has earned two victories — coming in the spring of 2010 and the fall of 2023 — along with 12 top-five finishes and 17 top-10s. He has also led 1,278 laps at the track, posting an average finish of 11.2.
While the win total may not immediately stand out, his consistency at Bristol has made him one of the most reliable performers at the track over time.
Entering Saturday night’s race, Allgaier carries both momentum and experience. With a deep field that includes top-tier Cup talent and hungry young drivers, the path to victory will be challenging. Still, given his current form and proven track record at Bristol, Allgaier remains a driver who cannot be overlooked.
