The NASCAR 2026 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, February 4, after being postponed three times due to a severe winter storm. The event remains under close observation because of ongoing cold temperatures and the potential for rain or sleet, which could affect race conditions.
Originally planned for Sunday, the race faced delays as a nor’easter brought heavy snowfall to the Charlotte region and surrounding areas, causing unsafe travel and limiting access to the venue. Although the snow has stopped, the weather forecast predicts chilly air and a chance of rain or sleet on race day, complicating preparations.
Race day logistics have been outlined with parking opening at 11:30 a.m. ET, shuttle services beginning at noon, and gates opening at 12:30 p.m. Practice and qualifying sessions are set to start at 1:30 p.m., followed by the 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ) at 4:30 p.m. The main 200-lap Cook Out Clash event will begin at 6 p.m., coinciding with dropping temperatures and increasing chances of precipitation.
Current Weather Outlook and Race Preparations Ahead of the Clash
NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass shared the latest forecast updates on social media, noting temperatures in the 30s with a 30 to 60 percent chance of rain and the possibility of a rain/snow mix during the event. He also confirmed the presence of wet-weather tires to handle damp track conditions.
“Bowman Gray ET Wed 1:30-FOX Sports App/FOX One-Cup p&q 4:30-FOX-LCQ (75) 6-FOX-Clash (200) NWS: 30s, 30-60% chance rain, rain/snow mix . Do have wet-weather tires to race in damp conditions. Forecasts vary trace-3 inches snow. If get FS1, should be able to watch p&q on app.” – Bob Pockrass, NASCAR insider
Temperatures in the afternoon will hover around 30°F (0–4°C), dropping into the upper 20s during the evening. Early-day rain could leave the track wet and cold, and as temperatures decline, any precipitation may transition to light snow, increasing the risk of delays. The cold asphalt surface will make it difficult for tires to warm up and provide proper grip, potentially leading to errors during the race.
NASCAR teams have prepared for these challenging conditions by bringing wet-weather tires to Bowman Gray. Each team will receive five sets of tires: one set for practice, one for qualifying (which counts towards the race), and three fresh race sets. Additionally, four wet-weather sets are available if needed, ensuring readiness for the variable weather. The presence of NASCAR haulers inside the stadium indicates strong confidence that the race will proceed as planned.
Fans who have experienced disruptions due to the scheduling changes are being accommodated through flexible ticket options. NASCAR is offering a 120% credit on future race purchases or full refunds to those unable to attend the rescheduled event, providing relief amidst the uncertainty.
Efforts to Ensure a Successful Race Despite Weather Challenges
Cleanup crews have been working nonstop at Bowman Gray Stadium following the storm, joined by Cup Series drivers Todd Gilliland and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., together with race project lead Justin Swilling. Their combined efforts have focused on removing snow from grandstands and access points to ensure a safe and accessible venue. Thankfully, the track surface itself is reported to be mostly ready after these extensive efforts.
“We’ll continue to stay close to our competition team but you know this is an event and venue that’s within our wet weather tire policy, so we will be ready to race regardless of what mother nature holds for us. Based on the initial forecasts it’s very light to mild weather conditions we face tomorrow.” – Justin Swilling, Race Project Lead
In response to the current conditions and schedule constraints, NASCAR has altered the race format by eliminating heat races. Instead, the 20 fastest drivers from qualifying will move directly to the main event. The top two drivers from the 75-lap Last Chance Qualifier will fill starting positions 21 and 22. The final spot will be awarded to the highest-ranked driver in the 2025 standings who has yet to qualify.
This approach aims to streamline the event under challenging circumstances, ensuring the Cook Out Clash remains a competitive and exciting race despite the weather obstacles.
Anticipated Impact and What to Watch For
The unpredictable weather forecast adds an element of uncertainty to the NASCAR Cook Out Clash, with wet and cold conditions likely to test drivers, teams, and equipment. The use of wet-weather tires and adjusted formats illustrate NASCAR’s efforts to adapt to the situation while maintaining safety and fairness.
Fans and participants should expect possible delays or adjustments during the event if conditions deteriorate. However, with the commitment of crews, drivers such as Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Todd Gilliland, and officials like Justin Swilling involved in preparation, NASCAR aims to deliver its highly anticipated exhibition race. Monitoring the weather as race day approaches will remain critical, as it could ultimately dictate how the Cook Out Clash unfolds on the track at Bowman Gray Stadium.
NASCAR’s Justin Swilling is optimistic the race gets in tomorrow. They do have wet weather tires. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/eCMRR9CM1y
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 3, 2026
