NASCAR‘s non-points event, The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has faced multiple scheduling changes due to severe winter weather, including heavy snow and freezing temperatures. Originally planned for Sunday, the race has been postponed to Wednesday, February 4, as organizers work to ensure safe and fair conditions for drivers, crews, and fans.
Efforts to prepare the 0.25-mile oval—located around a college football field—have involved continuous snow removal from the track surface, pit areas, parking, and seating at the 17,000-capacity stadium. NASCAR teams have collaborated closely with city officials and the North Carolina Department of Transportation to manage logistics and maintain safety throughout the delay.
Kyle Larson Commends NASCAR’s Dedicated Response to Weather Challenges
Kyle Larson, the reigning NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) champion and a versatile racer with experience across sprint cars, IndyCar, and stock cars worldwide, has closely observed NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to overcome the harsh weather obstacles.
“Yeah, I absolutely appreciate the effort, as always,”
Larson said.
“I feel like a lot of times, there’s many races where I’m like — ‘man, there’s no chance we’re going to get out there’ and they’ll postpone it to Monday, Tuesday or whatever, but they find a way.
They work really hard, and that’s a credit to the men and women who are working behind the scenes to make it all happen, whether that’s drying the racetrack or making sure the tech line is clear.
I think they’ve got a long track record of a lot of effort. So, I’m not surprised that we’re still in the same plan, even for an exhibition race.”
Throughout the delays, NASCAR has kept both fans and participants informed with regular social media updates and progress photos showing the cleared track, infield, and seating areas. On Tuesday, drivers Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Todd Gilliland joined stadium volunteers in clearing remaining snow, highlighting the cooperative effort surrounding the event.
Unfamiliar Terrain: Larson Faces New Snow-Related Obstacles
Known for a calm demeanor behind the wheel of his No. 5 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, Larson admitted this extensive snow delay presents a novel challenge for him. While well-versed in many types of racing surfaces and conditions, the persistence and severity of the snow is uncharted territory for the Elk Grove, California native.
“Well for one, I don’t have experience, really, with a snow delay,”
Larson said.
“Especially one as heavy as it is, so I think that’ll be new. But as always, what are you going to do? You know, we all just have to ride it out and see. So yeah, I think that’s obviously the approach.”
Concerns Grow Over Cold Weather Impact on Fans and Crews
Weather forecasts predict temperatures hovering in the upper 30s for practice, qualifying, and the main event on Wednesday afternoon and evening. Larson expressed confidence in the warmth within the race car itself, describing it as akin to an “oven” during competition, but voiced empathy for the outdoor personnel exposed to the cold.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever competed when it’s that cold,”
the two-time NCS champion said.
“But thankfully for us we’re inside of a stock car, which is basically like an oven. I think, honestly, it’ll feel fine for us inside the car.
I just feel for the crews, the mechanics, the fans and NASCAR officials; everybody who’s there outside in the cold. But we love the sport and we’ll compete in any conditions.”
For those unable to attend in person, the practice and qualifying sessions will be available via the FOX Sports App, while the Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ) and The Clash will broadcast live on FOX-TV, Motor Racing Network (MRN), and Sirius XM Radio.
The Clash’s Unpredictable Conditions Highlight NASCAR’s Resilience
The ongoing battle against winter’s grip underscores NASCAR’s resilience and dedication to maintaining the racing calendar. Kyle Larson’s respect for the behind-the-scenes teams and his willingness to embrace unfamiliar challenges exemplify the determination present within the sport during trying circumstances. As fans and crews brace for the cold, the evolving situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of motorsports and the collaborative efforts required to keep it moving forward.
Our efforts continue. pic.twitter.com/K1D1bZ3BCb
— Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium (@nascarclash) February 1, 2026
