Snow Forces Cook Out Clash to Wednesday at Bowman Gray

February 2, 2026 - 08:42

Persistent winter weather has forced NASCAR officials to once again delay the preseason Busch Light Clash exhibition race. The event, scheduled for this past weekend at the historic Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has been rescheduled for Wednesday night due to ongoing safety concerns.

A significant snowstorm blanketed the region, making the quarter-mile track, famously known as "The Madhouse," unusable. Despite efforts to clear the facility, conditions remained unsuitable for racing. This marks the third schedule change for the Clash, which was originally set for Saturday before being moved to Sunday and then to Wednesday.

The postponement is a disappointment for fans and teams eager to kick off the 2025 season. The unique stadium setting, which places fans directly above the action, was set to provide a dramatic backdrop for this non-points race. All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the Wednesday night event.

Drivers will now have a short turnaround before official season preparations begin in earnest. Officials express confidence that the midweek date will allow for a safe and competitive event to finally launch the new NASCAR campaign.