NASCAR heads to Richmond Raceway for the Cook Out 400 this weekend as the battle to crown this year’s champion enters its final stretch.
Denny Hamlin has extended his advantage at the top of the drivers’ standings, opening up a 103-point lead over Ty Gibbs. Former championship runner-up Tyler Reddick has slipped to fourth following last weekend’s Iowa Corn 350.
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Gibbs claimed victory in Iowa after starting sixth, taking the lead on Lap 328 when Ross Chastain brought his car down pit road from the front of the field. The Joe Gibbs Racing driver then held off a late challenge from teammate Christopher Bell to secure his latest Cup Series victory.
The result has propelled Gibbs into second in the championship standings, putting him firmly into the conversation as a potential title contender with the playoffs approaching.
Now, the Cup Series heads to Richmond, Virginia, for the Cook Out 400, with attention turning to whether Gibbs can continue his surge towards the championship and whether Bell can finally end his 30-race winless streak.
When is the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400?
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Richmond Cook Out 400 will take place on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th August as the push towards the end of the season continues.
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The race returns to the Richmond Raceway in Virginia, with the track hosting the iconic event since 1953, with Richard Childress Racing hoping to secure a third consecutive victory at the circuit.
Where to watch the NASCAR Cook Out 400
Fans can watch NASCAR Cup Series practice and qualifying for the Richmond Cook Out 400 on Tru TV, with Saturday’s race being broadcast on the USA Network and HBO Max.
Radio coverage throughout the race weekend will be provided by MRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, and the NASCAR Radio Network.
The weekend will also feature a support race from the NASCAR Craftsman Series.
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What is the weather forecast for the NASCAR Cook Out 400
At the time of writing, the weather forecast for Richmond, Virginia suggests a hot and humid Friday, with broken intervals of rain due to thunderstorms in the area. Temperatures should reach highs of 91°F, with it set to drop to 78°F on Saturday for the start of the evening race.
There is no forecasted rain for Saturday, with continued sunny intervals and a gentle breeze.
