NASCAR’s Ben Kennedy Speaks On The Decision to return to Bowman Gray Stadium for The Clash: ‘Honor The Sport’s Passionate Fan…
NASCAR’s decision to return to Bowman Gray Stadium for ‘The Clash’ in 2025 is rooted deeply in both history and the desire to honor the sport’s passionate fan base.
The stadium, known as “The Madhouse,” has been a central figure in NASCAR’s storied past, hosting events since the 1940s. For Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s Senior Vice President of Racing Development, the move to bring *The Clash* back to this historic short track marks a celebration of the sport’s origins while offering fans a unique and exciting venue that contrasts with modern race tracks.
The last time Bowman Gray hosted a Cup Series race was in 1971, and it has remained a legendary site ever since. Hall of Fame drivers like Richard Petty, Bobby Allison, and Junior Johnson have all competed on its tight quarter-mile track. The return in 2025 signals a strong connection to NASCAR’s roots, honoring the tradition of grassroots racing. Kennedy emphasized the importance of this history, stating that the return to Bowman Gray offers an opportunity to “celebrate our roots, our history, and our regional series.”
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Over the years, Bowman Gray has earned a reputation for its electric atmosphere. Fans at the stadium are famously passionate, often yelling and engaging directly with the drivers. NASCAR stars like Bubba Wallace and Kyle Larson fondly recall racing at the venue and the wild energy of the crowd. Wallace even shared stories of intense moments with fellow drivers during races at Bowman Gray, making it clear that this return will be an event filled with high drama and tension.
Beyond its historical significance, Bowman Gray presents a unique challenge for modern drivers. The stadium is tight and demanding, offering little room for error. According to NASCAR veteran Martin Truex Jr., the race is likely to be filled with “rooting and gouging,” making it a thrilling experience for fans. Kyle Busch, who has never raced at Bowman Gray, mentioned he might need pointers from local legends like Burt Myers to navigate the tight track.
By bringing *The Clash* back to Bowman Gray, NASCAR not only reconnects with its history but also enhances the venue for future local races. As Joey Logano pointed out, improvements like SAFER barriers will benefit the local racing scene, making Bowman Gray safer for the drivers who race there weekly.
Kennedy’s decision to return to Bowman Gray marks an evolution for *The Clash*, which had recently been held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
While the LA event introduced NASCAR to a new audience, Bowman Gray’s return is a nod to the long-standing fans who have supported the sport through the decades. For NASCAR, this is more than just a race; it is a way to showcase its enduring legacy while staying connected to the heart and soul of stock car racing.
For fans and drivers alike, the 2025 Clash at Bowman Gray promises to be a historic and unforgettable event, blending old-school short track racing with the high stakes of a modern NASCAR exhibition
