The much-anticipated NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium is staring down a formidable opponent this weekend: Mother Nature herself. A brutal cold front, following a significant snow event, now threatens to freeze out the unofficial start of the 2026 season for racing enthusiasts in Winston-Salem, NC.
Battle Against the Elements: Track Status
Winston-Salem, NC was blanketed by Winter Storm Fern, leaving Bowman Gray Stadium and its surrounding areas under a thick layer of snow and ice. This historic short track, a true icon in motorsports, has become a battleground against the elements. City crews have tirelessly worked to clear main roads, but access remains challenging for fans hoping to attend.
While the main track and crucial garage areas have been successfully plowed, a thin blanket of snow still covers the infield. Parking lots also present a significant hurdle, with snow piled high and limiting capacity. Mike Joy, the esteemed play-by-play announcer for NASCAR on FOX, provided a candid update, advising attendees to “dress for extreme cold” and prepare for remote parking.
NASCAR's Contingency Conundrum
Despite a brief respite with temperatures barely touching 37 degrees Fahrenheit, the mercury is set to plunge dramatically for race weekend. Forecasters predict a bone-chilling high of just 21°F and a low of 11°F on Saturday. Sunday offers little relief, with a high of 27°F and a low of 15°F. Compounding the challenge is the chance of additional snow flurries, threatening to add insult to injury for race organizers and fans alike.
NASCAR Executive Vice President Ben Kennedy confirmed that while TV equipment is being set up, discussions are ongoing regarding potential schedule adjustments. The safety of competitors and fans remains paramount. This isn't the first time the Clash has battled the elements; last year’s event at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was moved a day early due to historic rainfall. The Bowman Gray Stadium event is only in its second year, following the LA Coliseum’s final run, making these weather woes a concerning trend for the pre-season exhibition.
