Reflecting on NASCAR’s Coldest Races Before the Frigid 2026 Clash

Casey Halston

Published: January 31, 2026 10:55 AM ET

Reflecting on NASCAR’s Coldest Races Before the Frigid 2026 Clash

As NASCAR gears up for the cold conditions expected during the 2026 race season, it’s essential to reflect on some of the sport’s coldest races in history. This article will delve into NASCAR’s chilly encounters, showcasing remarkable events that have tested both drivers and fans alike.

NASCAR’s Coldest Races: A Historical Perspective

One of the standout examples of frigid temperatures in NASCAR occurred on February 25, 1990. The race, held in Richmond, Virginia, is notorious for its cold conditions. At the start, temperatures hovered around 31 degrees Fahrenheit, making it one of the coldest Cup Series races to date.

The 1990 Richmond Race

Date: February 25, 1990
Location: Richmond International Raceway, Virginia
Temperature: 31 degrees Fahrenheit (-0.5°C to 0°C)

This race began with CBS commentator Ken Squier noting the beautiful yet frigid weather. The bitter cold created challenges for teams, who had to ensure their tires remained warm without the use of tire warmers. Concerns were rampant about the performance of cold tires, prompting NASCAR to extend the time between engine start and the race’s start.

Memorable Cold Weather Racing Events

Several significant cold-weather races have left lasting impressions on NASCAR fans. Below are a few notable mentions:

2006 Bristol Snow-Bowl Derby

Date: 2006
Temperature: 34 degrees Fahrenheit
Highlight: Snowball fights and snowmen in the pit lane

This race featured playful snow-related antics and remained memorable for its frigid atmosphere. Kurt Busch even celebrated his victory with snow angels on the finish line.

2008 Atlanta Blizzard

Date: March 8, 2008
Conditions: Blizzard-like weather with significant snowfall

While qualifying was canceled due to the conditions, the O’Reilly Series race proceeded in less than favorable elements, showcasing the sport’s resilience.

2018 Martinsville Cold Snap

Date: March 25, 2018
Temperature: 31 degrees Fahrenheit
Events: Postponed events due to snow and ice

Significant snowfall forced NASCAR to rearrange its schedule, with teams working overtime to clear the track.

2022 Martinsville Night Race

Event: Night race with rain and sleet delays
Conditions: Chilly temperatures persisted during the event

This race demonstrated how cold weather could impact fan experiences and racing logistics.

Weather’s Impact on NASCAR Racing

The effect of cold temperatures on NASCAR races is a topic of great interest. From tire performance issues to crew member safety, the challenges presented by frigid conditions are considerable. As we approach the 2026 season, these historical cold-weather events serve as vital reminders of NASCAR’s ability to persevere through extreme weather conditions.