AUSTIN, Texas — Tyler Reddick set a new NASCAR Cup Series record by winning the first three races of the 2026 season, securing victory Sunday at the Circuit of Americas. Driving a Toyota co-owned by basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, Reddick’s impressive streak began with wins at the season-opening Daytona 500 and Atlanta, followed by a victory from the pole position at the demanding road course in Austin.
Reddick maintained his composure over the final 20 laps to hold off strong challenges from Shane van Gisbergen, the Trackhouse driver known for his dominant performance on road courses. Jordan joined the 23XI pit crew in celebration as Reddick crossed the finish line, underscoring the milestone achievement.
Intense Battle on the Road Course
Shane van Gisbergen, who had won five out of six road course races during the previous season, narrowly missed claiming a record-tying sixth consecutive road course win. The only road event he did not win in 2025 was the race held in Austin. Despite persistent pressure, Reddick demonstrated superior skill and endurance on the Formula 1-style track, ultimately pulling away from van Gisbergen in the closing laps.
This victory marked Reddick’s 11th career win and his second triumph at Circuit of Americas, making it the first track where he has achieved multiple wins. His previous victory there was in 2023, highlighting his growing proficiency on this challenging circuit.
Challenges Faced by Rookie Connor Zilisch
Trackhouse rookie Connor Zilisch entered the race weekend with hopes of disrupting van Gisbergen’s road course mastery. However, his weekend was fraught with difficulties, starting with an unexpected 25th place in qualifying. On the restart for the second stage, Zilisch was spun, hindering his progress.
Though Zilisch managed to rally back and contend in the final stage, his efforts were compromised by another spin on a restart with 16 laps remaining, which effectively ended his chances for a top finish. He ultimately crossed the line in 14th place.
“Zilisch is around, but the field continues on! pic.twitter.com/kP7Je34ez9” — NASCAR
Driver Changes and Unexpected Mid-Race Substitution
Alex Bowman of Hendrick Motorsports faced health issues late in the race, forcing him to exit his car with approximately 20 laps remaining. Myatt Snider, who usually serves as a pit spotter for Fox’s broadcast, stepped in as a last-minute replacement and quickly suited up to take over driving duties.
“There is a new driver of the No. 48.@MyattSnider has strapped in for @Alex_Bowman, who is under the weather. pic.twitter.com/aU8JXqENZ8” — NASCAR
Brad Keselowski Continues Racing While Recovering from Injury
Brad Keselowski managed to complete the race despite still recovering from a broken right leg sustained in December. His reserve driver, Joey Hand, was on standby to replace him if needed, but Keselowski persevered and finished in 20th place. The Austin road course posed particular concerns given the physical demands caused by the frequent left and right turns.
Looking Ahead to the Next Race at Phoenix Raceway
The NASCAR Cup Series will transition from road courses back to oval racing with the upcoming event at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, March 8. Christopher Bell, who previously outdueled Denny Hamlin in Arizona, delivered a notable performance last year by becoming the first driver to win three consecutive races in the NextGen car design.
As Tyler Reddick continues his historic NASCAR streak, fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see if he can extend his remarkable run on oval tracks in the weeks to come.
Zilisch is around, but the field continues on! pic.twitter.com/kP7Je34ez9
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 1, 2026
There is a new driver of the No. 48.@MyattSnider has strapped in for @Alex_Bowman, who is under the weather. pic.twitter.com/aU8JXqENZ8
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 1, 2026
