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NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium Faces Wintry Weather
Potential snow and ice could impact the season-opening exhibition event in Winston-Salem.
Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:39pm
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The NASCAR Cup Series is scheduled to kick off its 2026 season with the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. However, a potential winter storm could threaten the exhibition event, with forecasts calling for snow and ice accumulations on Saturday. NASCAR officials are monitoring the weather and have said their goal is to host the Clash at Bowman Gray, but they will communicate any schedule changes if necessary.
Why it matters
The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium is an important season-opening event for NASCAR, marking the start of the new Cup Series season. Inclement weather could disrupt the schedule and impact the race, which is returning to the historic short track for the second consecutive year after more than 50 years away.
The details
The 0.25-mile oval nicknamed 'The Madhouse' is slated to host practice and heat races on Saturday, followed by the main event on Sunday. However, the WeatherUnderground forecast is anticipating a 'likely' chance of snow on Saturday with accumulations of 1 to 3 inches. NASCAR has said they are continuing to monitor the weather and will communicate any schedule changes if necessary.
- The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium is scheduled for January 31 - February 1, 2026.
- A winter storm blanketed the Piedmont region of North Carolina with snow and ice last weekend.
- The forecast calls for a high of 22 degrees and 70-80% chance of snow on Saturday, with possible accumulations of 1-3 inches.
- On Sunday, the forecast calls for sunny to partly cloudy skies with a high of 29 degrees and under 5% chance of precipitation.
The players
Ben Kennedy
A NASCAR executive who has said the goal is to host the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.
Bowman Gray Stadium
A 0.25-mile oval in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, nicknamed 'The Madhouse', which is hosting the Clash for the second consecutive year after more than 50 years away.
What they’re saying
“Our goal is to host the Clash at Bowman Gray”
— Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive
What’s next
NASCAR will continue to monitor the weather and communicate any schedule changes if necessary. The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This potential weather disruption highlights the challenges NASCAR faces in hosting events at historic short tracks, where unpredictable winter conditions can impact the season-opening schedule. The ability to adapt and overcome these obstacles will be crucial for the sport as it looks to engage new fans and maintain its traditions.
