2026 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium
Short-track exhibition • 0.25-mile “Madhouse” • 750hp package • Extreme winter conditions
Event Overview
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium arrives under extraordinary circumstances. A major winter storm buried Winston-Salem in snow, forcing a double postponement and compressing the entire program into a single day. Crews removed more than 40 dump-truck loads of snow and ice, and NASCAR has emphasized that the event will not run without fans in the stands.
The quarter-mile bullring — famously known as “The Madhouse” — now pairs its tight confines with NASCAR’s new 750 horsepower short-track package. Combined with sub-freezing temperatures, a new high-wear Goodyear tire, and limited turnaround time between sessions, this Clash is one of the most mechanically demanding short-track events in recent memory.
Wednesday Schedule (February 4, 2026 — ET)
| Event | Time | Broadcast |
|---|---|---|
| Parking Lots Open | 11:30 AM | — |
| Gates Open | 12:30 PM | — |
| Practice & Qualifying | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM | FOX Sports App |
| Last Chance Qualifier | 4:30 PM | FOX |
| Cook Out Clash (Main Event) | 6:00 PM | FOX |
Radio coverage: MRN & SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Race Format
- Four 25-lap heat races set the first 20 starters.
- 75-lap LCQ sends the top two to the main.
- 200-lap main event for 23 cars, with a halfway break at lap 100.
- Green-flag laps only count toward the total.
- Provisional: Highest 2025 points driver not yet locked in.
The Madhouse Weather Challenge
Overnight lows near 11°F and daytime melt–refreeze cycles created a logistical nightmare for teams and city crews. The extreme cold affects tire warm-up, brake temperatures, and mechanical reliability.
- Sub-freezing temps slow tire warm-up and reduce grip.
- Snow and ice removal required continuous effort.
- NASCAR will not race without spectators present.
- Wet-weather tires available if the track is damp.
Technical Preview: 750hp, Tires & Brakes
Tire Impact
- New high-wear Goodyear tire designed for increased fall-off.
- Optimal grip requires 200–250°F, difficult to reach in freezing air.
- Dry nitrogen minimizes pressure swings (up to 23 psi rise).
- Wet-weather compounds available for damp conditions.
Brake Impact
- Rapid heating from 11°F ambient can crack rotors (“temperature shock”).
- One-day impound format limits repair time.
- Teams must balance cooling vs. over-cooling risks.
Key Drivers & Entry Highlights
38 entries competing for 23 starting spots.
Burt Myers
11-time Bowman Gray champion with 102 Modified wins. Local legend and fan favorite.
Kyle Larson
Only driver locked into the field. Elite car control in low-grip conditions.
Chase Elliott
Defending 2025 Bowman Gray winner. Strong short-track performer.
Corey LaJoie
Filling in for Brad Keselowski. Big opportunity in a top-tier car.
Denny Hamlin
JGR has won 12 of the last 15 exhibition openers. Hamlin remains a threat.
Connor Zilisch
Highly anticipated debut. Strong short-track and road-racing background.
38 entries 23 starters 4 heats + LCQ 200-lap main
Race Projections & Trends
- Starting position is critical: All quarter-mile Clash winners started in the front two rows.
- Team strength: JGR + Penske have won 12 of the last 15 season openers.
- High chaos potential: 750hp + cold tires + tight quarters.
- Mechanical attrition: Brakes and tire temps may decide the race.
Bowman Gray Stadium: The Madhouse
A 0.25-mile flat oval with a 77-year legacy of rivalries, drama, and unforgettable finishes. Modifieds typically run around 650hp here — making the 750hp Cup cars even more volatile. Recent renovations include a new 32’ x 19’ Samsung LED video board and upgraded fan facilities.
Technical Q&A
How does 750hp affect control on a cold quarter-mile?
More wheelspin, more throttle sensitivity, and more chaos on restarts.
Why do teams use dry nitrogen?
It eliminates moisture, preventing unpredictable pressure spikes in cold weather.
How do Modifieds compare to Cup cars?
Modifieds: ~650hp and lighter. Cup cars: 750hp, heavier, more brake load, harder to control.