NASCAR Cook Out Clash Returns to Bowman Gray Stadium

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The 2026 NASCAR season is set to begin with the annual Cook Out Clash exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The Clash, which is not a points race, offers Cup Series drivers a chance to get back in competitive form two weeks before the Daytona 500. The event features a revised format with qualifying and heat races on Saturday, followed by the main 200-lap race on Sunday. Winter weather could impact the schedule, but the action is set to be televised nationally on Fox.

Why it matters

The Cook Out Clash is an important early-season event that allows NASCAR teams to test their cars and drivers in a competitive environment before the start of the regular season. The move to the historic Bowman Gray Stadium in 2025 has added an exciting new element to the race, with the short track layout and stadium setting providing a unique atmosphere. However, the potential for winter weather disruptions in North Carolina adds an element of uncertainty to the proceedings.

The details

The 2026 Cook Out Clash will feature 23 drivers competing in a 200-lap race, with only green-flag laps counting. There will be a break at the halfway point on Lap 100. The action begins on Saturday, Jan. 31 with practice and qualifying at 6:10 p.m. ET, followed by heat races starting at 8:30 p.m. ET. On Sunday, Feb. 1, there will be a last-chance qualifying race at 6 p.m. ET and a pre-race show at 7:30 p.m. ET before the main event at 8 p.m. ET.

• The 2026 Cook Out Clash is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. ET.
• The last-chance qualifying race will take place on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET.
• Saturday's practice and qualifying is set for 6:10 p.m. ET, with heat races beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET.

What’s next

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