Cook Out Clash 2025: A Renewed Format at Bowman Gray

On February 2, 2025, NASCAR will make a historic return to Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. For the first time since 1971, the NASCAR Cup Series will race on this iconic quarter-mile track, known as "The Madhouse" for its intense atmosphere and the rivalries it generates in every race. The event, which will be broadcast on FOX at 6:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), will open the 2025 season with a renewed and unprecedented format.

Competitive Format: From Practices to the Main Event

The Cook Out Clash 2025 introduces a competitive approach that abandons previous achievement-based selection criteria. Instead, all drivers will compete from scratch to secure a spot on the main event grid.

Practices and Grid Definition

• Practice groups: Drivers will be divided into three groups, each with three assigned sessions.
• Qualifying: The best lap time recorded by each driver in their final session will determine starting positions for the heat races.
• Positioning: The fastest times will be sequentially assigned to the poles of each heat race.

Heat Races

• Structure: Four 25-lap races will be held, with only green-flag laps counting.
• Direct advancement: The top five drivers from each race will move directly to the main event.
• No overtime: The races will end at the exact number of laps.

Last Chance Qualifier

• Conditions: Drivers who do not qualify in the initial stages will compete in a 75-lap race.
• Positioning: Starting order will be based on results from the heat races.
• Final qualification: The top two finishers will secure their spots in the main event.

Main Event: The Clash

The main race will feature 23 drivers competing over 200 laps. Only green-flag laps will count, ensuring the race ends under active conditions. A scheduled break will occur at lap 100 for adjustments and refueling.

• 22 positions: Results from the heat races and the Last Chance Qualifier.
• Final position: Reserved for the highest-ranked driver in the 2024 championship points who has not already qualified.

Bowman Gray Stadium: A Place with History

Built in 1937, Bowman Gray Stadium is recognized as the oldest continuously operating weekly track in NASCAR history. This short circuit, with a 0.25-mile oval layout, has hosted memorable events, such as Richard Petty's 100th victory in 1969. Current drivers like Alex Bowman and Kyle Larson have also competed on this track during their professional careers.

NASCAR recently acquired the stadium's lease, ensuring its operation through 2050 in collaboration with the City of Winston-Salem. This initiative aims to preserve the venue's legacy and strengthen its connection to the roots of motorsport.