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The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) Cup Series is set to make its return to Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, next year, as it heads back to a short track pivotal to its history for the season-opening Clash exhibition race.
‘NASCAR’ announced this update recently, as Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice-President and Chief Venue and Racing Innovation Officer, shared the news during the pre-race ceremonies at the historic quarter-mile oval. This venue in Winston-Salem is closely tied to NASCAR’s roots, as it was promoted in part by Kennedy’s great-grandfather, NASCAR Founder Bill France Sr., alongside Founding Official Alvin Hawkins. Earlier this year, NASCAR took charge of the racing operations at the Municipal Stadium, transitioning management from the Hawkins family and marking a new chapter for NASCAR’s longest-running weekly track.
Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, NASCAR, LLC is a prominent American auto racing sanctioning and operating entity, most recognized for stock car racing. It stands as one of the leading motorsports organizations worldwide and ranks among the largest spectator sports in the United States.
The NASCAR Cup Series represents the pinnacle of racing within the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, being the most prestigious stock car racing series in the nation. It initially launched in 1949 as the Strictly Stock Division and was subsequently known as the Grand National Division from 1950 through 1970.
With a capacity of 17,000, Bowman Gray Stadium is a NASCAR-sanctioned quarter-mile asphalt flat oval short track and a historic football stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It holds a revered place in stock car racing history and is celebrated as “NASCAR’s longest-running weekly race track.”
‘NASCAR’ also confirmed that the non-points event is slated for February 2nd, 2025, and will be aired live on FOX, an American television broadcaster. In recent years, the Clash was held at the 77,500-capacity Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on a temporary quarter-mile track mimicking the Bowman Gray flat asphalt design around its football field. The stadium served as a testing ground for NASCAR’s Next Gen car, the vehicle currently utilized in the NASCAR Cup Series, as a Goodyear tire test and feasibility study were conducted prior to the inaugural Clash in LA.
The Clash is an annual exhibition event held in February, preceding the season-opening Daytona 500, and does not count toward championship standings.
The Daytona 500 is a prestigious 500-mile-long motor race that forms part of the NASCAR Cup Series, taking place each year at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida.
With a capacity of 101,500, the Daytona International Speedway is a renowned racetrack located in Daytona Beach, Florida, approximately 50 miles north of Orlando. Since its opening in 1959, it has been synonymous with the Daytona 500, recognized as the highlight of the NASCAR season and its opening event.
In celebration of the return to Bowman Gray, NASCAR Studios serves as the central hub for strategizing, creating, and distributing top-quality content on
FOX Sports Films, alongside demand content creators, is developing a one-hour documentary entitled ‘The Madhouse: NASCAR’s Return to Bowman Gray Stadium’, set to debut on Fox Sports 1 (FS1), an American pay television channel.
This documentary will delve into the vibrant and tumultuous history of the stadium while narrating the efforts leading up to The Clash in 2025. Further details regarding the documentary, including its airing schedule on FS1, will be announced in the future.
In his remarks, Kennedy stated, “We’re returning to The Madhouse at Bowman Gray Stadium. Bringing our Cup Series back for the first time since the 1970s marks another historic moment. This serves as an opportunity to honor our roots, our history, and to celebrate our NASCAR regional series.”
The Bowman Gray Stadium hosted Cup Series points events from 1958 to 1971, showcasing a list of winners that reads like a roster of NASCAR Hall of Famers, including icons such as Richard and Lee Petty, David Pearson, Junior Johnson, Bobby Allison, Glen Wood, and Rex White. Current Cup Series drivers such as Kyle Larson and Bubba Wallace have also raced in what is now identified as the ARCA Menards Series East. Notably, Kennedy celebrated a significant victory on that circuit at the stadium with his family in 2013.
The ARCA Menards Series East is a regional stock car racing series managed by the Automobile Racing Club of America and the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). Races occur on oval tracks ranging from 1/3 to 1 mile long, as well as on two road courses measuring 1.53 and 2.45 miles.
Based in Toledo, the Automobile Racing Club of America is a U.S. auto racing sanctioning body established in 1953 by John Marcum. A subsidiary of NASCAR since 2018, Ron Drager has served as the current President of ARCA, having taken over the role in 1996 after Bob Loga’s passing.
The Bowman Gray Stadium holds a cherished place in the hearts of the France family. Since the 1949 season, it has hosted weekly NASCAR events, coinciding with the inception of the NASCAR Cup Series as the Strictly Stock division. In 1957, former NASCAR President Bill France Jr. met Betty Jane Zachary, his future wife, at the stadium. Back in 2013, NASCAR executives Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy were there to applaud Ben Kennedy’s victory at the quarter-mile track.
That same year, Ryan Preece triumphed in a race for the former NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour at Bowman Gray. The driver of Stewart-Haas Racing’s No. 41 Ford characterized the stadium’s atmosphere as “wild,” highlighting the enthusiastic crowd that fills its horseshoe-shaped bleachers during the Spring and Summer seasons for racing across four divisions, including the star Modifieds. The track has earned the nickname ‘Madhouse’ not only for its enduring ‘Madhouse Scramble’ lineup format but also due to its lively environment.
Preece remarked earlier this year during NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race, “It’s the East Coast version of what they did in LA, so I’m all for it. I’m all for visiting short tracks. It’s important to try something different. The idea of fans surrounding the stadium brings a cool vibe.”
The stadium is no stranger to winter events during either NASCAR’s traditional preseason or offseason. For many years, Bowman Gray hosted the ‘Tobacco Bowl’ modified and sportsman races around the New Year’s holiday.
The Clash, introduced in 1979 as a non-points invitational at Daytona International Speedway, was intended for the previous season’s Cup Series pole winners. Over the years, the event has evolved but has traditionally marked the unofficial kickoff for stock-car racing during Daytona’s Speedweeks until the first Los Angeles event in 2022.
Kennedy concluded, “This represents the next evolution of The Clash for us. We see a significant opportunity to diversify and explore new markets and venues through an exhibition race like The Clash.”
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NASCAR Returns to Its Roots: The Clash Exhibition Race Set for Bowman Gray Stadium in 2025
Overview of the Clash Exhibition Race
The 2025 NASCAR Clash exhibition race marks a significant return to the sport’s grassroots roots, taking place at the historic Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This iconic venue, known for its rich history and unique short-track racing, will host a thrilling event that celebrates the spirit of NASCAR.
The Significance of Bowman Gray Stadium
Bowman Gray Stadium is often referred to as the “Birthplace of Stock Car Racing.” Since its opening in 1949, it has been the venue for numerous legendary racing events. Here are some key highlights about Bowman Gray Stadium:
- Historic Venue: One of the oldest tracks in the United States, Bowman Gray has hosted racing for over 70 years.
- Short Track Racing: With a quarter-mile oval, the stadium is known for its close-quarters racing, making it ideal for thrilling competition.
- Local Heritage: The stadium has a deep connection to the local community, featuring many hometown heroes and legends of the sport.
What to Expect at the 2025 Clash
The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium promises to be an exciting showcase of talent, featuring some of NASCAR’s top drivers. Here are a few key details about the event:
- Date: The Clash will take place in February 2025, kicking off the NASCAR season.
- Format: The race will follow a unique format that emphasizes head-to-head competition and fan engagement.
- Tickets: Fans can expect a limited number of tickets due to the stadium’s size, making it a highly sought-after event.
Benefits of the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium
Hosting the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium brings several advantages to both NASCAR and its fans:
- Community Engagement: The event fosters a stronger connection between NASCAR and local fans, encouraging attendance and participation.
- Showcasing Talent: The unique short track setting allows up-and-coming drivers to showcase their skills in a high-stakes environment.
- Historical Appreciation: Racing at Bowman Gray highlights the sport’s history, reminding fans of NASCAR’s origins and evolution.
Fan Experience at the Event
Attending the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium will be an unforgettable experience for fans. Here are some practical tips to enhance your visit:
Tips for Attending the Clash
- Arrive Early: Given the limited seating capacity, arriving early will ensure you secure a good spot.
- Explore the Venue: Take time to explore the stadium’s history, including memorabilia and displays showcasing its storied past.
- Engage with Drivers: Look for opportunities to meet drivers during fan events and autograph sessions.
Historical Impact of Short Track Racing
Short track racing has played a pivotal role in shaping NASCAR into what it is today. Here are some key aspects of its historical significance:
Key Facts about Short Track Racing
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1949 | First NASCAR Race | The start of NASCAR at a short track in Daytona Beach. |
| 1952 | First Race in Bowman Gray | Established the venue as a key player in NASCAR history. |
| 1972 | Short Track Championship | Introduced the concept of short track racing championships. |
Case Studies: Iconic Moments in Short Track Racing
Bowman Gray Stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments in racing history. Here are a few case studies that illustrate the unique atmosphere of short track racing:
Notable Moments
- 1970s Rivalries: The intense rivalries between local drivers created a fan fervor unmatched by larger tracks.
- Record-Breaking Performances: Many drivers have set records at Bowman Gray, making it a proving ground for talent.
- Community Support: Local businesses and fans rally around the stadium, creating a vibrant race-day atmosphere.
First-Hand Experience: What to Expect as a Fan
Attending the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium offers a unique fan experience, combining the thrill of live racing with the intimate setting of a short track. Here’s what fans can expect:
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Bowman Gray is electric. Fans are close to the action, feeling the roar of the engines and the excitement of the crowd. The sound of racing reverberates, creating an immersive experience.
Accessibility
Bowman Gray Stadium is known for its accessibility. Unlike larger venues, fans can easily navigate the area, find parking, and get close to the action.
Fan Activities
In addition to the race, fans can enjoy various activities, including:
- Merchandise stalls featuring driver gear and memorabilia.
- Food vendors serving local cuisine and classic race-day snacks.
- Interactive displays where fans can learn about the history of NASCAR.
Looking Ahead: The Future of NASCAR at Bowman Gray
The 2025 Clash exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium is just the beginning. NASCAR’s return to its roots could pave the way for more events at historic tracks. This shift not only highlights the importance of local venues but also strengthens the bond between fans and the sport.
Potential Future Events
As NASCAR embraces its history, fans can look forward to more events at venues like Bowman Gray. Possible future initiatives might include:
- Annual Races: Establishing an annual exhibition race to celebrate the legacy of short track racing.
- Community Engagement Programs: Initiatives to involve local communities in the planning and execution of events.
- Driver Development Programs: Opportunities for novice drivers to compete on short tracks, fostering new talent.
Conclusion
The Clash exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium in 2025 represents a thrilling return to NASCAR’s roots. It encapsulates the essence of short track racing, bringing together fans, history, and the excitement of live motorsport. As this event approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a spectacular celebration of NASCAR’s heritage.
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