NASCAR to stage its first points‑earning Cup race at North Wilkesboro in three decades
NASCAR returned to the 1‑mile brick‑paved street circuit on Monday, after three years as the All‑Star Race location, with drivers lined up to battle for a spot on the final day of the season.
Championship drama comes to life at Atlanta and Wilkesboro
Tyler Reddick has narrowed the gap to Denny Hamlin, closing the standings to just 24 points with Atlanta’s events. Erik Jones sits 16th in the Chase, eight points ahead of Joey Logano, and his performance will shape the battle for the $1 million In‑Season Challenge prize.
In the clincher of the semi‑finals, under‑dog Todd Gilliland will face Chase Elliott, while Christopher Bell throws a buzz into the field by facing perennial runner‑up Ryan Blaney. Winners will meet at Indianapolis for the final showcase of the challenge.
New bumper rules applied for the first time
For this Cup event, teams will deploy softer bumpers and are required to remove the traditional bumper form— a first in the series. The change aims to enhance racing dynamics and safety on the concrete track.
North Wilkesboro line‑up and race details
Thirty‑seven entries will compete, including an open entry— No. 66 for Chad Finchum. Drivers will control 450 laps in three stages: 80, 185 and 185. Nine sets of tires will be allocated for the race.
Weekend schedule and viewing options for Nashville
Friday, July 17
2:00 p.m. EST – Craftsman Truck Series practice (Fox Sports 2)
3:05 p.m. EST – Truck Series qualifying (Fox Sports 2)
6:00 p.m. EST – CARS Late‑Model races (Flo Racing)
Saturday, July 18
12:48 p.m. EST – Truck race green‑flag (FOX Sports 1)
5:00 p.m. EST – Cup practice (trutv / HBO MAX)
6:10 p.m. EST – Cup qualifying (trutv / HBO MAX)
Sunday, July 19
6:00 p.m. EST – Cup pre‑race show (TNT / HBO MAX)
7:14 p.m. EST – Cup race green‑flag (TNT / HBO MAX)
The race will air on TNT (or TSN in Canada) with an HBO MAX live stream that includes in‑car footage. Radio coverage is provided by PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Drivers on North Wilkesboro will battle not only for victory but also for a lucrative $1 million payout, making this race a decisive moment for the season’s top contenders.
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