2026 NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Clash

• 23-car field in 200-lap main event with mandatory 100-lap break at halfway
• Completely flat quarter-mile asphalt oval wrapped around football field
• Last Chance Qualifier determines final three grid spots for main event
• Green-flag laps only count toward total; race must finish under green
• 17,000-seat capacity provides close sightlines from every section

Best Way to Experience It

• Front stretch grandstands offer start-finish line views and pit road entrance action
• Fan Track Walk available as ticketed add-on with driver meet-and-greets

Good to Know

• Parking free in designated lots around stadium
• Coolers permitted if sized to fit under seat; no glass or alcohol
• General admission seating throughout stadium; lawn chairs not permitted
• New LED video board and safety barriers installed for 2026 season

• Best fit if you value historic venues — NASCAR's longest-running weekly track since 1949, first Cup Series return to Bowman Gray Stadium since 1971, 48th running of pre-season exhibition race.
• Best fit if you enjoy season-opening exhibitions — non-championship curtain raiser before Daytona 500, 200-lap main event with mid-race break, Last Chance Qualifier determines final grid positions, competitive intensity despite exhibition status.
• Best fit if you like passionate fan atmosphere — "The Madhouse" nickname earned through intense short-track racing, 17,000-capacity quarter-mile flat oval built around football field creates intimate spectator proximity, sold-out 2025 edition.
• Not ideal if you prioritize championship-points racing — exhibition format awards no driver standings points toward season championship, race outcome doesn't affect playoff qualification or regular season standings unlike remaining schedule.