Bowman Gray Stadium is set to undergo a major transformation in its racing operations following the acquisition of Winston-Salem Speedway Inc. by NASCAR. The stadium’s lease agreement with the City of Winston-Salem is still in place until December 2050, but significant changes are already underway.
The history of NASCAR at Bowman Gray Stadium dates back to 1949 when Bill France Sr. and Alvin Hawkins introduced motorsports to the football stadium. The Hawkins family has been instrumental in leading operations at the stadium for multiple generations, and they will continue to play a role in its management.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. showcased his skills last season by leading 47 laps during the Xfinity race at Bristol. Austin Shuford, who has experience managing and promoting events at various race tracks, is set to become the new general manager of the stadium’s racing operations. Cup teams have competed at Bowman Gray Stadium 29 times between 1958-1971, with legendary drivers like Richard Petty, Lee Petty, Glen Wood, and Junior Johnson securing victories there. The stadium also hosted the Next Gen test in October 2021, with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Clint Bowyer participating in track activities.
Ben Kennedy, NASCAR’s SVP of Racing Development and Strategy expressed gratitude towards the Hawkins family for their contributions to the historic track. He emphasized the significance of Bowman Gray Stadium as NASCAR’s first weekly racetrack and highlighted the importance of preserving its legacy for future generations of fans and racers. Kennedy himself has competed at Bowman Gray Stadium, winning the K&N Pro Series East race there in 2013. Other notable drivers such as Ben Rhodes, Scott Heckert, Corey LaJoie, and Matt DiBenedetto have also claimed victories at the stadium.
NASCAR’s takeover of Bowman Gray Stadium’s racing operations is expected to bring about significant changes that will ensure that this historic track continues to thrive for many years to come.
