NASCAR Drivers with the Most Wins at Watkins Glen International
Watkins Glen International, a historic road course in New York, has been a staple on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule since the 1980s. Known for its mix of high-speed straights and challenging corners, “The Glen” presents a unique challenge compared to traditional ovals.
Over the years, a select group of drivers has mastered the track, earning multiple victories. Here’s a look at the top NASCAR drivers who have won the most races at Watkins Glen.
1. Tony Stewart – 5 Wins
Tony Stewart, affectionately known as “Smoke,” is the king of Watkins Glen with five wins at the track (2002, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009). His success at the road course came from his ability to handle both the technical aspects of road racing and the fast pace required to dominate at The Glen. Stewart’s aggressive driving style, coupled with his background in open-wheel racing, helped him excel at road courses, making him a fan favorite at Watkins Glen.
2. Jeff Gordon – 4 Wins
Jeff Gordon is another NASCAR legend with four wins at Watkins Glen (1997, 1998, 1999, 2001). As one of the sport’s most successful road racers, Gordon’s mastery of The Glen is evident in his ability to consistently perform well during the track’s road course races.
Gordon’s wins at Watkins Glen were a key part of his overall road course dominance, where he also won multiple races at other tracks like Sonoma.
3. Chase Elliott – 2 Wins
Chase Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has quickly established himself as a formidable road course racer. Elliott won back-to-back races at Watkins Glen in 2018 and 2019, showcasing his talent for navigating the intricate road layout.
His wins came during a time when Elliott was establishing himself as one of the sport’s rising stars, and his victories at Watkins Glen are a testament to his skill on road courses.
4. Mark Martin – 3 Wins
Mark Martin secured three victories at Watkins Glen during his career (1993, 1994, 1995). Known for his consistent performances and smooth driving style, Martin’s wins at The Glen were highlights of his impressive NASCAR tenure.
His technical precision on road courses helped him succeed where other drivers often struggled with the track’s complexities.
5. Kyle Busch – 2 Wins
Kyle Busch, one of NASCAR’s most versatile and successful drivers, has two wins at Watkins Glen (2008, 2013). Busch is known for his adaptability across various track types, and his victories at Watkins Glen highlight his ability to perform on road courses as well as ovals. His aggressive driving style and ability to capitalize on opportunities have made him a consistent threat at The Glen.
Other Notable Winners
Marcos Ambrose: The Australian road course specialist earned two victories at Watkins Glen in 2011 and 2012. Ambrose’s background in road racing helped him stand out at the track, where his natural talent shone through during his short NASCAR career.
Rusty Wallace: A dominant driver in the 1980s and 1990s, Wallace won at Watkins Glen twice (1987, 1989), establishing himself as a strong road racer during his prime.
Ricky Rudd: Another notable road course specialist, Rudd earned two victories at Watkins Glen (1988, 1990), adding to his reputation as a strong contender on road circuits.
Watkins Glen has always been a track that rewards drivers with patience, technical skill, and adaptability. Over the years, drivers like Tony Stewart, Jeff Gordon, and Chase Elliott have made the track their own, etching their names in NASCAR history with multiple victories.
As NASCAR continues to embrace road course racing, Watkins Glen will remain a crucial battleground for drivers looking to prove their versatility in the sport.
