NASCAR has announced that the Cook Out Clash will be returning to Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem to open the 2026 season. The fast food restaurant chain Cook Out, which was founded in Greensboro, will return as the title sponsor.
The 2025 format featured a 200-lap main race with a 22-car field, determined by heats and a Last Chance Qualifier. It was the first time Bowman Gray had hosted NASCAR’s top division in more than 50 years, with Chase Elliott winning over Ryan Blaney.
A cornerstone of NASCAR history, Bowman Gray has held races since 1949, with past Cup events from 1958-1971.