Mark Martin isn’t returning to NASCAR in 2026. But he’s not staying away from the track either. The NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin shut down talk of a comeback on April 9 after a post from Chris Rice sparked speculation across the sport. Rice wrote on social media that Martin had called him and said he wanted to drive one of Kaulig Racing’s trucks, a message that quickly spread and fueled discussion about a possible return.
Within hours, Martin responded directly when asked about the claim. His reply was short and clear, ending the conversation before it could build further. At the same time, his name remained in the spotlight for another reason, as he prepared to take part in a separate racing event.
Mark Martin Shuts Down Comeback Speculation
The situation began when Chris Rice posted, “Oh my @markmartin called me, and I had no idea. But I just called him back, everyone, let’s cross our fingers. He says I want to drive one of those trucks! @RamTrucks @Kaulig_Trucks.”
The post gained traction and led to questions about whether Martin could be part of Kaulig Racing’s 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series plans.
Later that day, senior NASCAR writer Vikrant Damke sent Martin a message that included the headline: “Mark Martin Set to Make a NASCAR Return With Tony Stewart’s Partner? Kaulig President Reveals.”
Martin replied with a direct response: “This is false.”
His statement addressed both the post and the article tied to it. The claim centered on Kaulig Racing’s expansion into the Truck Series, but Martin confirmed he is not involved. His response came quickly and left no uncertainty about his plans.
NASCAR Legends Return to the Track in the IROC Event
While denying any NASCAR comeback, Martin is still scheduled to race. He will compete in the International Race of Champions as part of the 2026 Heritage Invitational at Ten Tenths Motor Club in Concord, North Carolina.
The April 10 event brings back the format of the original International Race of Champions, which ran from 1974 to 2006. Drivers will compete in equal equipment using vintage IROC cars on a 1.7-mile circuit.
Martin enters as a five-time IROC champion. He is joined by several NASCAR champions and Hall of Famers, including Bobby Labonte, Ken Schrader, Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, and Bill Elliott.
The field also includes road racing drivers such as Scott Pruett, Max Papis, Tommy Kendall, and Tomy Drissi.
Practice is set for 11 a.m., qualifying at 1:10 p.m., and the race later in the day. The event will air live on Racing America.
Mark Martin’s Record and Current Stance
Mark Martin remains one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers. In 882 Cup Series starts, he recorded 40 wins, 56 poles, and 61 second-place finishes. He finished second in the championship standings five times.
Across NASCAR’s national series, he earned 96 wins, including 49 in the Xfinity Series and seven in the Truck Series. He entered the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2017.
Martin has not competed full-time since 2013. His last Cup start came at Homestead-Miami Speedway on November 17, 2013.
His response on April 9 reinforces that position. By stating “This is false,” Martin ended any suggestion of a return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series while continuing to take part in select racing events.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post NASCAR: Mark Martin Denies Comeback but Still Set to Race in IROC Event appeared first on Heavy Sports.