NASCAR fans love a good trip down memory lane, and a recent Twitter exchange between Brad Keselowski and Mark Martin gave them just that. Keselowski reflected on Martin’s last NASCAR win, sparking a wave of nostalgia among fans who remember the legendary driver’s incredible career.
Mark Martin: A NASCAR Icon Who Came Close to a Cup Title Many Times
Martin is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in NASCAR history—despite never winning a Cup Series championship. He recorded 40 Cup Series wins, 49 Xfinity (formerly Nationwide) Series victories, and seven Truck Series triumphs. For 14 years, he held the record for most Xfinity Series wins before Kyle Busch surpassed him.
Today is 14 years since Mark Martin's last nascar win (via u/ar51501998) https://t.co/LaERYFUFD8 #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/4hKDLRx2wx
— r/NASCAR on Reddit (@NASCARonReddit) March 5, 2025
One of Martin’s most memorable victories came in the 2011 Sam’s Town 300 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, his final NASCAR win in the Nationwide Series. That race was intense, with a young Keselowski leading most of it until a tire issue. The veteran racer used his experience and a strong fuel-saving strategy to take the checkered flag.
Brad Keselowski’s Tribute to Martin
Years later, Keselowski took to Twitter to acknowledge that race, expressing respect and nostalgia. In a simple yet meaningful post, he wrote, “Glad you got it if i couldn’t.”
Martin responded warmly, noting how Keselowski had dominated until the tire mishap and reminding everyone why he remains one of NASCAR’s most respected figures. Their brief exchange captured what makes the sport special—mutual respect, unforgettable battles on the track, and the legacy drivers leave behind.
“You had me beat until that flat tire,” Martin said.
For fans, the moment was a reminder of just how great Martin was. Even without a Cup Series title, his impact on NASCAR is undeniable. And as Keselowski’s tweet showed, his competitors haven’t forgotten, either. Clear, Martin has earned a healthy level of respect from his NASCAR peers and fans alike. Once the ASA Rookie of the Year, Martin retired as one of the best drivers to hit the NASCAR tracks.
