NASCAR to open 2025 season with The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium

NASCAR has decided to kick off the 2025 season in a unique way by returning to the roots of motorsports with The Clash, which will be held at the historic Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This event, scheduled for February 2, 2025, will mark the first time the NASCAR Cup Series has competed at this track since 1971.

The announcement of this event was made during a NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series event at the same circuit, where NASCAR Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy highlighted the historical significance of Bowman Gray Stadium. Built in 1937, this quarter-mile short track is known as the oldest continuously operating weekly track in NASCAR history. Additionally, Bowman Gray has been nicknamed "The Madhouse" due to the intensity and chaos that characterize the races at this circuit. The tight nature of the track, along with driver rivalries, has created a chaotic and action-packed atmosphere, contributing to the stadium's fame.

In addition to The Clash, NASCAR has taken a significant step by acquiring Winston-Salem Speedway, Inc., the lessee of Bowman Gray Stadium. Under this agreement, NASCAR will manage race operations in collaboration with the City of Winston-Salem until December 2050. Ben Kennedy expressed his gratitude to the Hawkins family for their legacy in managing this important circuit and reaffirmed NASCAR's commitment to preserving the history and legacy of the stadium for future generations.

Bowman Gray Stadium has witnessed the triumphs of NASCAR legends like Richard Petty, who achieved his 100th victory at this track in 1969. Additionally, contemporary NASCAR Cup Series drivers like Alex Bowman and Kyle Larson have also competed at this stadium during their professional careers.

NASCAR has also announced the production of a documentary in collaboration with FOX Sports Films, titled "The Madhouse: NASCAR’s Return to Bowman Gray Stadium." This one-hour documentary will explore the rich history of the stadium and the preparation process for The Clash in 2025, providing a deep insight into the connection between NASCAR and local racing at this iconic venue.