NASCAR’s 2026 Clash Set for Return to Bowman Gray Stadium

NASCAR has confirmed that its annual pre-season showcase, the Cook Out Clash, will return to Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1, 2026. This marks the second consecutive year the historic Winston-Salem venue will host the event, reinforcing NASCAR's commitment to grassroots racing. The quarter-mile track, once a staple of early stock car racing, saw a sold-out event in 2025 after more than five decades without a Cup Series race. FOX Sports will again carry the broadcast, and Cook Out remains the title sponsor. 

The announcement cements NASCAR’s strategy to reconnect with its foundational roots. Bowman Gray Stadium, celebrated for its compact racing format and loyal local following, serves as a key symbol of stock car tradition. Hosting the Clash for a second year in a row reflects the sport’s push to balance innovation with heritage.

NASCAR officials, city leaders, and partners like Cook Out and FOX Sports have reaffirmed their commitment to the event. The 2025 edition’s full-capacity attendance and regional enthusiasm were pivotal in the decision to return for 2026.

NASCAR Regional Managing Director Joey Dennewitz emphasized the importance of honoring the sport’s legacy by returning to its earliest competitive venues. The City of Winston-Salem, represented by Mayor Allen Joines, echoed that sentiment, recognizing the 2025 event's success as a blueprint for the future. Both organizations are working closely with Winston-Salem State University to ensure a smooth and impactful 2026 race weekend.

FOX Sports' continued broadcast partnership and Cook Out’s renewal as title sponsor confirm commercial confidence in the event’s viability. These consistent partnerships strengthen the race’s market presence and audience reach.

The return of the Cook Out Clash to Bowman Gray Stadium in 2026 underscores a deliberate effort by NASCAR to blend heritage with current fan engagement strategies. A successful 2025 event demonstrated that compact, historic venues can still draw national attention and support. With firm backing from city officials, sponsors, and media partners, the 2026 edition is poised to reinforce the stadium's relevance in modern motorsports