The NASCAR Cup Series rolls into Charlotte Motor Speedway this weekend, kicking off a busy schedule of practice sessions and qualifying runs on May 23.
The weekend takes on added significance after the tragic death of Kyle Busch on May 21, a loss that has reverberated through the garage and the fan base.
In a heartfelt gesture, the iconic No. 33 Chevrolet, once associated with Busch’s early career, will now carry the number under the wheel of Austin Hill, serving as a moving tribute to the late driver.
A Tribute on the Track
The No. 33 car, painted in its traditional colors, will make its debut during Saturday’s qualifying, marking the first time the number has appeared on track since Busch’s final race.
Organizers have emphasized that the tribute extends beyond the car, with moments of silence and visual tributes planned throughout the weekend.
Weather and Schedule Adjustments
Rain showers have already disrupted the supporting series, postponing the Camping World Truck Series event and canceling the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series qualifying on Friday, adding uncertainty to Saturday’s lineup.
Despite the weather, officials have penciled in a 1:40 p.m. CT start for the Coca‑Cola 600 qualifying, contingent on conditions clearing in time.
The entry list reads like a who’s who of the sport, featuring drivers from Hendrick Motorsports, Team Penske, Joe Gibbs Racing and other top organizations.
How to Watch the Action
Fans can tune in to the live qualifying broadcast on Amazon Prime Video, while radio listeners will find coverage on SiriusXM and the Performance Racing Network.
Charlotte Motor Speedway, situated in Concord, North Carolina, will host the Coca‑Cola 600 later in the weekend, promising a night of endurance racing under the stadium lights at the 1.5‑mile superspeedway.