2026 NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Clash | Automotive Experience
Paved Oval Racing
2026 NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Clash
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America2026-02-04
About This Event
NASCAR's pre-season exhibition race — 200 green laps on the quarter-mile flat oval at Bowman Gray Stadium, known as "The Madhouse" and NASCAR's longest-running weekly track since Bill France Sr. brought racing here in 1949. The first Cup Series race at the venue since 1971, run on a paved oval wrapped around a football field in downtown Winston-Salem.
What to Expect
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
Is This Event Right For You?
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.
