The highly anticipated return of NASCAR to Bowman Gray Stadium for the 2025 Clash is finally here. This marks the first Cup Series event at the historic quarter-mile track since 1971. The race promises intense action and close-quarters racing, a hallmark of short track competition.
Tonight, Sunday, the green flag drops at 8 p.m. ET for the NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. This exhibition race kicks off the NASCAR season and will be broadcast live on Fox. Before the main event, a last chance qualifier race will determine the final spots in the 23-car field. This LCQ begins at 6 p.m. ET and will also air on Fox, offering fans a full evening of NASCAR action.
The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium airs on Fox, with coverage beginning at 6 p.m. ET for the last chance qualifier and continuing with the main event at 8 p.m. ET. This primetime broadcast allows fans across the country to tune in and witness the thrilling start to the NASCAR season. Check your local listings for channel information.
The NASCAR Clash is a 200-lap exhibition race featuring 23 drivers competing for bragging rights at Bowman Gray Stadium. Drivers secured their spots in the main event by finishing in the top five of one of four heat races held on Saturday. Those who didn’t qualify through the heats will compete in a last chance qualifier race, with the top two finishers earning a spot in the Clash. The final spot is reserved for the highest-finishing driver from the 2024 Cup Series points standings who did not qualify through other means.
Chase Elliott secured the pole position for the Clash after winning his heat race. Other notable drivers who qualified through the heats include Chris Buescher, Denny Hamlin, and Tyler Reddick. William Byron and Alex Bowman, both Hendrick Motorsports drivers, also earned their spots in the Clash through Saturday’s heat races. Kyle Larson will be vying for a spot in the last chance qualifier.
Bowman Gray Stadium is a quarter-mile asphalt short track located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Known for its tight corners and intense racing, Bowman Gray Stadium is a unique and challenging venue for NASCAR drivers. The stadium’s intimate setting creates an electric atmosphere for fans, adding to the excitement of the Clash.
The starting lineup for the Clash includes a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Chase Elliott leads the field from the pole position, followed by Chris Buescher and Denny Hamlin. William Byron will start 11th, and Alex Bowman will start 19th. The final starting grid will be determined after the last chance qualifier. Ryan Blaney secured a spot in the race based on his 2024 points standings.
