What time is the 2026 NASCAR Cook Out Clash race?

The 2026 NASCAR Cook Out Clash is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, at 6 p.m. ET.

Where can I watch the NASCAR Cook Out Clash?

The 2026 NASCAR Cook Out Clash will be televised nationally on FOX and can be streamed on FoxSports.com and the Fox Sports app.

Does the Cook Out Clash award points for the 2026 NASCAR season?

No, the Cook Out Clash is an exhibition race and does not award any points for the 2026 season standings.

Home / Sports / NASCAR Season Ignites: Cook Out Clash Kicks Off 2026

NASCAR Season Ignites: Cook Out Clash Kicks Off 2026

4 Feb

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Summary

The 2026 NASCAR season begins with the Cook Out Clash exhibition race.
Winter weather postponed the event, now scheduled for Wednesday.
No points are awarded, but prize money is available for drivers.

NASCAR Season Ignites: Cook Out Clash Kicks Off 2026

NASCAR's 2026 season officially commences on Wednesday, February 4th, with the Cook Out Clash exhibition race. The event, initially planned for Sunday, was postponed due to winter weather and will now take place at Bowman Gray Stadium's short track in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Twenty-three drivers will compete in the 200-lap main event, following a Last Chance Qualifier. Although the Cook Out Clash does not affect the 2026 season standings, drivers will vie for prize money. This race serves as a vital opportunity for drivers to re-acclimate to racing conditions before the renowned Daytona 500 on February 15th.

The race is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. ET and will be televised nationally on FOX. Practice, qualifying, and the Last Chance Qualifier will also be broadcast across FS2 and HBO Max earlier in the day. Drivers can also stream the event on FoxSports.com and the Fox Sports app.