A historic weekend returns to North Wilkesboro
The NASCAR Cup Series is set to make a landmark appearance at North Wilkesboro Speedway next July, bringing the iconic Window World 450 back to a venue that has been absent from the premier stock‑car circuit for decades.
Organizers have secured 36 charter entries for the event, guaranteeing spots for the sport’s regular contenders while a single open entry will round out the 37‑car grid, a configuration that underscores both tradition and the series’ willingness to experiment.
Among the driver changes, Austin Hill is slated to take over the No. 33 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing, stepping into the seat vacated by Kyle Busch following the latter’s tragic passing earlier this year.
The open entry will be occupied by Chad Finchum, whose lone participation adds a unique storyline to the weekend and highlights the series’ blend of established talent and emerging opportunities.
In a related note, the NASCAR O’Reilly Series will observe an off‑weekend during the same period, allowing teams and fans to focus on the Cup Series spectacle without competing series overlap.