Bobby Allison earns his 85th NASCAR win after more than 50 years

NASCAR has officially recognized Bobby Allison's victory in the Myers Brothers Memorial race, held on August 6, 1971, at Bowman Gray Stadium. This adjustment in the records awards Allison his 85th Cup Series win, placing him fourth on the all-time wins list in the category.

Historical review

For more than five decades, the race lacked an official winner, despite Allison leading 138 of the 200 laps and celebrating in Victory Lane. This was because the event combined Grand National and Grand American cars, with Allison competing in a Grand American Ford Mustang. Although declared the winner at the time, his victory was not officially added to his Cup Series total until now.

Update to NASCAR records

With this correction, Allison now ranks behind only Richard Petty (200 wins), David Pearson (105), and Jeff Gordon (93) on the all-time wins list. This decision comes as NASCAR prepares for an upcoming event at Bowman Gray Stadium, once again bringing the importance of officially recognizing the results of this race to the forefront.

Bobby Allison's career

Allison, inducted into the second class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011, boasts an impressive history in NASCAR. His achievements include five titles across various divisions and three Daytona 500 victories. His final Daytona win, in 1988, is especially remembered for him surpassing his son, Davey Allison, in one of the most memorable moments in motorsport history.