The NASCAR Cup Series kicks off its 2025 season with a bang this Sunday evening as the highly anticipated Cook Out Clash descends upon the historic Bowman Gray Stadium. This non-points exhibition race promises a thrilling spectacle of high-octane action at a venue steeped in racing heritage, marking the fourth different track to host the Clash in the past six years. The unique, tight confines of Bowman Gray, coupled with a new heat racing format, are sure to deliver an electrifying experience for NASCAR fans. This event isn’t just about speed; it’s about strategy, survival, and showcasing the raw talent of NASCAR’s finest under the lights of this iconic short track.
The innovative heat racing format will add a layer of intensity and complexity to the Clash. Drivers will be divided into three practice groups based on the 2024 owner standings. Each group will then be further split into two subgroups for qualifying sessions, ultimately determining the starting grid for four 25-lap heat races. These heat races are crucial, as only the top five finishers from each heat will automatically advance to the 200-lap main event. This format introduces a high-stakes element, demanding peak performance from the outset and placing a premium on clean, aggressive racing to avoid early elimination.
For those who don’t make the cut in the heat races, a second chance awaits in the form of a 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier. This last-ditch effort provides two final spots in the main event, offering a dramatic opportunity for redemption and a chance to claw their way back into contention. Even with this safety net, the qualifying process is designed to be a cutthroat affair, with 16 drivers ultimately facing elimination from the Clash. The pressure will be immense, creating a compelling narrative of triumph and disappointment under the bright lights.
The field of drivers vying for a spot in the Clash main event is a veritable who’s who of NASCAR’s elite. From young guns like Carson Hocevar and Riley Herbst to established stars such as William Byron, Kyle Larson, Kyle Busch, Todd Gilliland, Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin, Ross Chastain, A.J. Allmendinger, Joey Logano, and Chase Elliott, the competition is stacked. These drivers bring a mix of experience, aggression, and raw talent, guaranteeing a fierce battle for every position on the track. The close-quarters racing at Bowman Gray will amplify these rivalries, creating an atmosphere of intense competition.
Fans eager to witness this high-octane spectacle can catch all the action live on Fox Sports and Fox. The heat races will air on Fox Sports 1 at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 1st, setting the stage for the dramatic Last Chance Qualifier and the main event. The Last Chance Qualifier will be broadcast on Fox at 6:40 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 2nd, followed immediately by the 200-lap Clash at 8:20 p.m. ET. FuboTV will also offer live streaming options for those looking for alternative viewing methods. This comprehensive broadcast schedule ensures that fans won’t miss a single moment of the action-packed weekend.
The return of the Clash to Bowman Gray Stadium marks a significant moment for NASCAR, reconnecting the sport with its roots in short track racing. This historic venue, last hosting a Cup Series race in 1971 when Bobby Allison claimed victory, has been a cornerstone of grassroots racing for decades. Bringing the Clash to this iconic track injects a dose of nostalgia into the season opener, while also showcasing the thrilling, close-quarters racing that defines short track competition. Beyond the Clash, the weekend will also feature the Cook Out Madhouse Classic on Saturday, showcasing practice, qualifying, and the main race for local divisions, offering fans a full weekend of racing entertainment. This blend of high-profile Cup Series action and local racing creates a unique and dynamic atmosphere, celebrating the sport’s heritage and its future.
