Avondale, United States
News Desk | Motorsport Coverage
AVONDALE, Arizona — The NASCAR Race Today Cup Series is underway at Phoenix Raceway on Sunday, March 8, as drivers compete in the 312‑lap Straight Talk Wireless 500, according to race officials. Joey Logano earned the Busch Light Pole Award on Saturday with a lap speed of 135.537 mph, positioning him at the front of the grid for NASCAR Race Today.
Kyle Larson, Austin Cindric and Ryan Blaney start near the front, while points leader Tyler Reddick looks to continue his streak of early-season victories following wins at Daytona, Atlanta and Circuit of The Americas. Officials reported pre‑race penalties moved drivers including Zane Smith and Brad Keselowski to the rear of the field after inspections, adding extra competitive pressure.
The race is structured in three stages: an opening 60 laps, a middle 125-lap segment, and a final 127-lap run. Teams are expected to strategize around pit stops, tire changes, and track positioning on the 1-mile oval. Phoenix Raceway, known for its flat and technical turns, tests driver skill and crew coordination early in the season.
The event forms part of a busy motorsports weekend in Phoenix, including NTT IndyCar and NASCAR Race Today O’Reilly Auto Parts Series races. National television coverage is on FS1 with streaming via FOX Sports platforms, while radio coverage is available on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Race Today Radio.
The results of the Straight Talk Wireless 500 will impact early championship standings and momentum as the series moves to Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 15. The story is developing.
ALSO READ: Benfica vs Porto: Historic Portuguese Rivalry Takes Center Stage In Primeira Liga
