NASCAR Cook Out Clash: Live Race Results and Viewing Guide
Ryan Preece marked the beginning of the 2026 NASCAR season with a significant victory at the Cook Out Clash. This exhibition race took place at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Wednesday night. Preece’s triumph makes him only the third driver in history to win the Clash before securing his first official Cup win, following in the footsteps of legends Jeff Gordon and Denny Hamlin.
Race Overview
The Cook Out Clash, traditionally an exhibition event, was originally scheduled for Sunday but was postponed due to winter weather. The race consisted of 200 laps on a short track typically used for Winston-Salem State University football games. Twenty-three drivers, including Preece, participated in this race, which did not affect the championship points but offered a substantial prize purse. In 2025, the total purse amounted to $3,002,500.
Key Details of the Event
- Date: February 4, 2026
- Location: Bowman Gray Stadium, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Race Distance: 200 laps
- Participating Drivers: 23 drivers
- Total Purse (2025): $3,002,500
Race Highlights
While the event awarded no championship points, it served as a warm-up for drivers before heading to Daytona International Speedway for the Daytona 500 on February 15. During the race, all vehicles had the opportunity to refuel, allowing for strategic pit stops without other major adjustments.
Preece displayed remarkable skill, reclaiming the lead on lap 156 and maintaining it through multiple cautions and restarts. Notably, there were 152 green-flag laps but also 133 laps under caution. This race saw dramatic moments, including minor scuffles among drivers like Daniel Suarez and Bubba Wallace, who engaged in fierce competition.
Weather Impact
Inclement weather caused a temporary halt as the drivers dealt with slippery conditions and performance adjustments. The event commenced with a moment of silence to honor Greg Biffle, who tragically passed away in a plane crash in December 2025. Following this tribute, spirits were uplifted by motivational speeches and a rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.
How to Watch the 2026 Cook Out Clash
- Practice Sessions: 11 a.m. ET on FS2
- Last Chance Qualifier: 4:30 p.m. ET on FOX and HBO Max
- Main Event Start Time: 6 p.m. ET on FOX
- Streaming: Available on FoxSports.com and Fubo TV
Advancing to the Cook Out Clash
To qualify for the Cook Out Clash, the 20 fastest drivers in the preliminary sessions secured spots in the main event. The subsequent 18 competitors contended for two available positions during the Last Chance Qualifier.
The Cook Out Clash served as an exciting kickoff to the NASCAR season, showcasing thrilling competition and setting the stage for the events to follow. As teams prepare for the upcoming Daytona 500, Preece’s victory highlights the intense talent present in NASCAR’s racing community.
