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Snow Delays Bowman Gray NASCAR Race Twice
2 Feb
Summary
- Winter storm forces second postponement of NASCAR's Clash race.
- Bowman Gray Stadium faces significant snow and icy conditions.
- Rescheduled race might be one of NASCAR's coldest ever.
NASCAR's 2026 season opener, the Clash exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium, has been delayed for a second time due to a significant winter storm. Originally slated for the weekend, the race was first moved to Monday night and is now rescheduled for Wednesday night. Nearly a foot of snow has fallen in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, creating icy road conditions and making travel hazardous.
Officials have made repeated efforts to clear the track and venue, but the ongoing severe weather and travel advisories have necessitated further postponements. This location presents unique challenges for snow and ice removal compared to other NASCAR venues, as stated by an NASCAR official. The race is now slated for Wednesday evening, with qualifying and practice sessions earlier in the day.
If the Clash proceeds on Wednesday, it is expected to be one of the coldest races in NASCAR's nearly 80-year history. Forecasts predict a low of 43 degrees Fahrenheit for Wednesday night. This contrasts with the record-cold race in February 1990 at Richmond Raceway, which had a race-time temperature of 31 degrees Fahrenheit.
Bowman Gray Stadium, a historic quarter-mile oval, is hosting the Clash for the second consecutive year. While last year's event was successful, this year's weather challenges highlight the risks of holding the traditionally warmer-climate race in a location prone to winter storms.
