NASCAR’s premier Cup Series is set to make its first points‑paying appearance at North Wilkesboro Speedway in years, a move that revives a storied short track just as the championship chase tightens.
A Historic Return to a Short Track
The 0.625‑mile venue previously hosted three All‑Star events since 2023, and the last time a Cup race counted for points was back in 1996 when Jeff Gordon claimed victory.
Leading up to Sunday’s Window World 450, the weekend will feature a busy slate of supporting series. The ZMax CARS Tour, co‑owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kevin Harvick, will run on Thursday and Friday, while NASCAR Truck Series practice and qualifying are slated for Friday, with live coverage on FS2.
Saturday’s Faith Fest 250 will bring four Cup Series regulars into the Truck field, adding extra intrigue to the event.
The centerpiece, the Window World 450, is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday and will be broadcast on TNT.
Contenders and Cash Prizes
Among those contending are Chase Elliott, who is expected to be a favorite after announcing he will also compete in the Truck series and the CARS Tour races, as well as Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney and Kyle Larson. Christopher Bell, Carson Hocevar, Todd Gilliland and Shane van Gisbergen are also entered, ensuring a deep field.
Four Cup drivers remain in the second In‑Season Challenge, each vying for a $1 million cash prize that could shape the playoff picture. With the regular season drawing to a close, the outcomes at North Wilkesboro could have ripple effects on playoff positioning, making this weekend one of the most anticipated on the 2026 calendar.