Chase Elliott secured a thrilling victory in the NASCAR Cup Series Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, holding off Ryan Blaney in a race filled with dramatic moments. The non-points exhibition race marked the unofficial start of the 2025 NASCAR season and delivered an exciting preview of what’s to come. This year’s Clash took place at the historic quarter-mile Bowman Gray Stadium for the first time, adding a unique short-track element to the event.
Elliott’s win came after a dominant performance throughout the weekend. He was the fastest in practice and won Heat 1 on Saturday, earning him the pole position for the 200-lap main event. Elliott led for a significant portion of the race, showcasing his skill and determination on the tight and challenging Bowman Gray track.
NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium – Chase Elliott Winning
Several incidents throughout the race kept fans on the edge of their seats. Ryan Blaney, who started last, made a remarkable charge through the field, ultimately finishing second. A late-race caution caused by contact between William Byron and Todd Gilliland tightened the field, but Elliott maintained his composure and held on for the win. Blaney nearly took the lead while attempting to pass a lapped car driven by Kyle Busch, but he missed the corner, allowing Elliott to pull away.
Denny Hamlin led at the halfway mark, but Elliott eventually overtook him for the lead. Other notable moments included spins by Brad Keselowski, Alex Bowman, and Kyle Larson, adding to the drama and excitement of the race. The tight confines of Bowman Gray Stadium led to numerous close calls and intense battles for position throughout the event.
The race also featured a Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ) to determine the final starting spots in the Clash. Kyle Larson won the LCQ, with Josh Berry finishing second to secure their places in the main event. Ryan Blaney claimed the final spot via a provisional. The LCQ was filled with its own share of excitement, including spins and close racing for the coveted transfer positions. This ensured that even drivers who didn’t qualify directly still had a chance to compete in the Clash.
For those who missed the live action, there are several ways to catch up on the NASCAR race today. The race was broadcast on FOX and can be streamed on platforms like FUBO and the FOX Sports app. Additionally, radio coverage was provided by the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Highlights and race replays are likely available online for fans to relive the excitement of the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. Fans can also find detailed race results and standings on NASCAR.com and various sports news websites.
