WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — After weather forced multiple reshuffles of the schedule, the 2026 NASCAR Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium is now set to take the green flag Wednesday, Feb. 4, at 6 p.m. ET, delivering a thrilling exhibition kickoff to the Cup Series season at one of the sport’s most storied short tracks. The quarter-mile “Madhouse” in Winston-Salem had been poised to host the Clash earlier in the weekend, but historic snowfall left 8–10 inches of snow on the ground and forced NASCAR and city officials to postpone practice, qualifying and the main event to midweek in the interest of fan and competitor safety.
Weather again stands as the story line heading into Wednesday, as lingering winter conditions — and even a forecast for additional snow showers — could challenge track crews and fans alike as they prepare for practice and qualifying beginning mid-afternoon. NASCAR has adjusted the event’s on-track format to fit the new timeline, with practice and qualifying slated for early afternoon and a Last Chance Qualifier preceding the 200-lap feature at night. While officials remain focused on delivering the race, heavy snow and cold temperatures have added an unpredictable layer to the season’s first big spectacle.
Meanwhile, the first laps are set to begin at 1:30 PM EST at Bowman Gray Stadium for practice and qualifying.
Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass has the practice group lineups.
Each group will receive two eight-minute sessions for practice. The third session is qualifying.
Cars are finally on track once again in Winston-Salem.
Let the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season begin!
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