NASCAR is set to revive a piece of its storied history by staging a points‑paying Cup Series race at North Wilkesboro for the first time in three decades. The event, scheduled for Sunday, July 19, will be televised live on TNT and streamed on HBO Max, giving millions of fans a chance to witness the action as the green flag drops at 7:14 p.m. Eastern.
A Historic Return to North Wilkesboro
The weekend will feature a full slate of on‑track activity, including practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and a series of semi‑final showdowns that determine the two drivers who will contest the final for a $1 million prize. Among those contending are championship leader Tyler Reddick, who sits just 24 points behind Denny Hamlin, and Ryan Blaney, fresh off a dramatic victory at EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta.
Christopher Bell, who captured last year’s All‑Star Race at the same venue, is also in the mix, as is Erik Jones, who currently sits on the Chase bubble in 16th place, eight points ahead of Joey Logano. The semi‑finals will pit underdog Todd Gilliland against Chase Elliott, while Bell and Blaney are slated to meet in another bracket, setting up a clash of the sport’s rising stars.
Semi‑Finals and the $1 Million Stakes
In a bid to increase on‑track racing, teams have been instructed to remove the bumper form, resulting in softer bumpers that should allow more side‑by‑side competition. The changes come as part of a broader effort to make the In‑Season Challenge more unpredictable and exciting for viewers.
Supporting Events and Broadcast Details
The schedule also includes the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where the final two drivers will battle for the prize money. Earlier in the weekend, the Cup race at Nashville will feature a full field of 37 entries, highlighted by an open team entering under the No. 66 with driver Chad Finchum.
Fans can expect a high‑octane weekend that blends tradition with fresh incentives, as NASCAR leverages its historic venues to reward performance and create new storylines heading into the latter half of the season.