With NASCAR Potentially Snubbing the Coliseum, Bowman Gray Veterans Welcome the Clash With Open Arms: “Brings History Back to the Sport”

Is NASCAR’s season-opening exhibition, “The Clash” headed to the iconic Bowman Gray Stadium? NASCAR only recently took over the management of running and operating the short track on lease from Hawkin’s family until 2050. But why, all of a sudden, are there rumors about Clash going to Bowman Gray and not the L.A. Coliseum?

Well, the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum has proven to be a success since its inaugural run back in 2022. NASCAR was able to tap into non-traditional fans and introduce them to the sport. However, after this year’s event, reports suggested that NASCAR is looking to snub the venue for the 2025 event.

So there’s a potential link here with reports of Clash moving away from the L.A. and NASCAR taking over the reins of its historic short-track. Although there’s no official announcement on the same, the veteran drivers and enthusiasts at Bowman Gray were optimistic about NASCAR returning to its roots.

Here’s what the racers at Bowman Gray feel about NASCAR events at the race track

NASCAR was formed in 1947, and the first race was held at the 0.25-mile oval in 1949. Originally, it was a dirt oval surface, but it was later paved to hold NASCAR races. Bill France was the one who opened the doors of the new race track to the fans, and this is how NASCAR came into existence. The track has hosted numerous series like Late Model Short Track, NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour, and the K&N Pro Series.

Going by the recent reports and rumors, it might soon add the Busch Light Clash to the list. Burt Myers, the youngest Bowman Gray track champion in history, sharing his take on NASCAR’s return to the racetrack, stated, “It’d be exciting, I guess, wouldn’t it? I’ve seen some of the stuff that so-called leaked out and you hear the rumors and stuff, and I’ve asked a couple who I feel like Kinda know what’s going on, and I know that it’s been talked about for sure.”

Meanwhile, native driver John Holleman IV, who has 25 wins to his name, has been keeping close tabs on the developments. And is excited to see NASCAR returning to its roots. “What I feel like NASCAR’s trying to do of get back to the roots. I think it will. I mean, it’s pretty much the same thing as the LA Coliseum; it’s the same exact track size. It could be a little bit challenging with the flow of traffic and getting the fans in but I like the idea. Brings history back to the sport.”

Another veteran driver, Chris Fleming, was open to the move but was concerned about the current seating capacity of the venue. “I think it will be good. I just wonder, where are they going to put all the people? I think they’re going to have to probably build some stands. Some temporary stands, but I think it will be good for racing, and they’re also going to find out that this place is harder to get around than what it looks.”

While the NASCAR community has been discussing the prospect of Clash finding its new home at Bowman Gray, one particular comment stood out from the rest.

Has Dale Earnhardt Jr planted seeds for the return of yet another historic venue?

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Despite calling it quits from competitive racing, Dale Jr remains a prominent voice and holds influence over the sport. This was evident from his efforts to bring North Wilkesboro Speedway back to life with the NASCAR All-Star race. Therefore, as soon as the news broke about NASCAR taking over the stewardship of “Madhouse,” he was the first to spark an interest in the community.

Taking to X, Junior wrote, “Is NASCAR about to give us the Clash at BG in 2025?” Looking at what his efforts were able to accomplish at NWS, something similar might unfold with Bowman Gray. In a hypothetical situation, if NASCAR does move the Clash to BG, racing would be more or less the same as at the Los Angeles Coliseum. Both tracks have minimal banking and similar track lengths.

It also saves teams time and travel money as Winston-Salem City is close to Charlotte. However, the track would need some restoration and upgrades, as pointed out by one of the seasoned regulars. A seating capacity of 17,000 would not suffice to host a big event like a Clash, but with NASCAR now calling the shots, these upgrades can be made on short notice.

NASCAR is not likely to return to LA next year. Moreover, chatter about them taking the Clash international has also subdued. So, with all the signs and current chatter, Bowman Gray could be hosting the 2025 Busch Light Clash event.