NASCAR announces return to Bowman Gray for the 2026 Cook Out Clash
- The Cook Out Clash returned to Bowman Gray Stadium in 2025 after a long hiatus from the Cup Series.
- The race was deemed highly successful, leading to NASCAR's decision to return in 2026.
- This return emphasizes NASCAR's commitment to combining its historical roots with modern racing culture.
In 2025, NASCAR made a historic return to Bowman Gray Stadium, also known as 'The Madhouse', for its preseason exhibition race, the Cook Out Clash. This marked the first Cup Series event at the venue since 1971. The event took place in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on February 1, 2025, and was won by NASCAR Cup Series champion Chase Elliott. Following this success, NASCAR announced it would host the Cook Out Clash again in 2026, solidifying the venue's role in the sport's future. The stadium, established in 1937, has a storied history, having hosted NASCAR's first weekly sanctioned races in 1949. NASCAR's renewed focus on Bowman Gray reflects its interest in reconnecting with grassroots racing while appealing to modern audiences and showcasing the sport's heritage. This initiative aims to bring attention to shorter tracks and unique venues, blending NASCAR's historical roots with contemporary racing dynamics. The 2026 event is set to attract fans once again, and local support aims to boost attendance and engagement with racing culture in the area.