NASCAR driver Riley Herbst has been cleared to compete at Martinsville Speedway, with a backup driver remaining on standby for the event. The clearance comes ahead of the scheduled race weekend at the Virginia short track.
Herbst, who competes in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, received medical or regulatory approval to participate after an unspecified issue had placed his status in question. Team officials have not disclosed the nature of the concern that prompted the standby arrangement.
The backup driver, whose identity has not been publicly announced, will remain available should Herbst be unable to start or continue the race. Martinsville's tight confines and aggressive racing often test driver endurance and car durability.
MotorBiscuit's Maggie Mackenzie reported the development on October 31, 2026. Further details regarding Herbst's condition and the backup plan are expected from team representatives ahead of on-track activity.
