The 2025 NASCAR season roars to life with The Clash this weekend at Bowman Gray Stadium, reaffirming North Carolina’s place as the epicenter of America’s favorite motorsport. From historic tracks to marquee events, the Tar Heel State has been the proving ground for legends and the stage for unforgettable moments. Bowman Gray Stadium: The Madhouse Known as “The Madhouse,” Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem is the perfect venue to launch the season. As NASCAR’s oldest weekly track, it has hosted thrilling short-track battles since 1949. Its tight quarter-mile oval provides a gladiatorial atmosphere, making it a fan favorite and a nod to the sport’s grassroots heritage. The NASCAR Cup Series take to the track for practice and heat races Saturday, before Sunday’s season-opening Clash. Green flag is scheduled for 8 p.m. Rockingham Speedway: The Return of the Rock For the first time in more than a decade, NASCAR’s Xfinity and Truck Series will return to Rockingham Speedway, a track with a rich legacy dating back to 1965, in April. The “Rock” was once a staple on the Cup Series schedule, known for its abrasive surface that tests tire management and driver skill. Its revival is a testament to NASCAR’s commitment to honoring its roots while embracing its future. North Wilkesboro Speedway: A Timeless Treasure North Wilkesboro Speedway’s resurgence has been a highlight of NASCAR’s modern era. One of the sport’s original tracks, it hosted its first NASCAR race in 1949. Its return as the site of the NASCAR All-Star Race in 2023 captivated fans and brought new life to a cherished venue. With its modernized facilities and historic charm, North Wilkesboro embodies the spirit of NASCAR’s golden age. In April, the 0.625-mile circuit will once again play host to the biggest all-star event in sports and NASCAR’s best drivers face off in a battle for supremacy. Charlotte Motor Speedway: NASCAR’s Crown Jewel At the pinnacle of North Carolina’s NASCAR legacy is Charlotte Motor Speedway. Since its debut in 1960, the track has been synonymous with innovation and excellence. Each Memorial Day weekend, it hosts the Coca-Cola 600, one of NASCAR’s most prestigious events. This 600-mile marathon challenges drivers like no other race, blending endurance, speed and strategy. With patriotic tributes to the U.S. Armed Forces and energetic pre-race concerts, the Coca-Cola 600 has become a can’t-miss event on every race fan’s bucket list. Charlotte is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a tribute to the legends who have defined the sport. The city’s deep racing roots and the iconic speedway’s status as a hub for teams and technology make it the ultimate destination for fans and competitors alike. As engines fire up at Bowman Gray this weekend, North Carolina’s storied tracks stand ready to deliver another season of unforgettable racing and get fans revved up for more unforgettable history as the sport’s next chapter is written.