The NASCAR season roars to life this weekend with the highly anticipated Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Known as “The Madhouse,” the iconic quarter-mile bullring in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is set to host a thrilling mix of grassroots Modified racing and the best drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series.
With a jam-packed schedule of practice, heat races, and feature events, the weekend promises high-intensity action on one of NASCAR’s most legendary short tracks. Here’s a breakdown of the schedule and what fans can expect.
Saturday: Modifieds and Cup Series Prep
The weekend kicks off Saturday with Modified racing and crucial practice and heat sessions for the Cup Series:
• 11:15 a.m. ET – Modified Practice: Drivers in the Modified division will hit the track for a practice session to dial in their setups ahead of qualifying.
• 12:00 p.m. ET – Modified Qualifying: The starting grid for the Modified feature race will be set through this high-stakes qualifying round.
• 1:45 p.m. ET – FloRacing Modified Feature (125 laps or 90 minutes): Modified racers will battle it out in a feature event showcasing the tight, action-packed racing that has made Bowman Gray legendary.
• 6:10 p.m. ET – NASCAR Cup Series Practice (FS1): Cup Series teams will have three separate practice groups, with each group taking the track for an eight-minute session to finalize their setups ahead of the heats.
• 8:30 p.m. ET – NASCAR Cup Series Heats (FS1): Four 25-lap heat races will determine the starting lineup for Sunday’s main event. With short sprints and limited passing opportunities, these heats will be critical for securing good starting positions.
Sunday: The Main Event
The attention turns to the Cup Series on Sunday, as drivers face their final chances to make the field before the Clash itself.
• 6:00 p.m. ET – Last Chance Qualifier (FOX): Drivers who fail to lock into the main event through the heat races will have one final opportunity in a 75-lap LCQ. With a limited number of spots available, expect desperation and door-to-door battles as drivers fight to stay alive.
• 8:00 p.m. ET – The Clash (FOX): The weekend culminates with the 200-lap Clash under the lights. Known for its tight racing, tempers, and unpredictability, the Clash at Bowman Gray promises to deliver a spectacle to start the season in style.
Weather Outlook
Fans attending the Clash should bundle up, as nighttime temperatures are expected to dip into the 40s. There’s a slight chance of rain, with the forecast showing a 10% probability of precipitation. While weather disruptions seem unlikely, the chill in the air will add to the already intense atmosphere of this short-track showdown.
What to Watch For
Bowman Gray Stadium’s tight, flat corners and close-quarters racing are notorious for creating fireworks. Expect door-to-door battles, aggressive moves, and the occasional heated rivalry to flare up. For Cup Series drivers, the Clash offers an early opportunity to gain momentum and confidence heading into the 2025 season.
Whether you’re a fan of grassroots Modified racing or the stars of the Cup Series, the Clash at Bowman Gray is sure to be a weekend full of drama and excitement. Be sure to tune in or catch the action live as NASCAR kicks off the new season with a bang!
