Alex Bowman has expressed his support for holding a NASCAR points race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, joining rising momentum behind the historic track’s revival. This development follows several key events since 2017, including Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s efforts to preserve the track’s legacy and the recent All-Star Race hosted at the venue, which has reignited interest in its future.
North Wilkesboro Speedway, dormant for many years, has been undergoing a notable comeback highlighted by a $20 million renovation funded by the American Rescue Plan. After the track’s Cup Series absence since 1996, when Jeff Gordon last won there, the return of NASCAR All-Star events has brought excitement to fans and drivers alike. Bowman’s endorsement signals growing confidence that the short track can support a regular points-paying race on the NASCAR calendar.
Alex Bowman Encourages a Points Race at the Historic Wilkesboro Track
Following Christopher Bell’s victory at the recent All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, Alex Bowman also publicly backed the idea of a points race at the venue. While acknowledging some logistical challenges the track might present, Bowman highlighted the positive atmosphere and strong fan interest that the facility still commands.
He stated,
“I think it’s fine to have a points race there. Honestly, the All-Star race is the biggest event for us as far as the time perspective goes. Aside from the Daytona 500, I don’t think I’ve ever been at a racetrack for so long this year as I was at North Wilkesboro, right?”
—Alex Bowman, NASCAR Driver
Bowman emphasized the event’s rich experience beyond just racing, mentioning the packed stands and festive environment. He added,
“Like it’s a three-day show. There’s so many things going on. Like, you may as well have a points race there.”
He further praised the track’s heritage and the energy it brings to fans, saying,
“There’s nothing more to it aside from more cars on the racetrack at that point. So yeah, it’s a cool place. It’s so much history there, such a cool vibe. Obviously, the fans love it. It’s packed whenever we go there.”
—Alex Bowman, NASCAR Driver
How North Wilkesboro Found New Life Through Concerted Efforts
North Wilkesboro Speedway’s revival is rooted in Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s persistent dedication since 2017, which included digitally preserving the track’s legacy on iRacing and supporting lower-tier races through the CARS Tour. The landmark moment came when NASCAR chose to hold the All-Star Race at the track, shining a spotlight on its renewed appeal.
Initial All-Star events hosted there in 2023 and 2024 saw modest success, but the 2025 race marked a turning point. With a freshly paved surface on the 0.625-mile oval offering enhanced multi-groove racing, the event produced a high number of green-flag passes, thrilling the audience and proving the track’s ability to host high-caliber competition once again.
Contrasting Opinions: Kyle Petty’s Concerns About a Full-Time Cup Race
Despite support from drivers like Bowman and Bell, Kyle Petty expressed reservations about making North Wilkesboro a points-paying race venue. Speaking during the May edition of Fast Talk on the Performance Racing Network, Petty warned that including Wilkesboro on the full Cup schedule could dilute the unique allure the track currently enjoys.
Petty drew an analogy to emphasize his point, stating,
“My point is, it’s like how my mom would always say. It’s like chocolate: if I give it to you all the time, it’s not special.”
—Kyle Petty, Former NASCAR Driver
He elaborated on the track’s rarity adding to its significance in the eyes of fans and questioned whether the excitement would persist if Wilkesboro became part of the regular 36-race calendar. Petty posed the question,
“Wilkesboro is special because it means something right now. If it’s just another race on a 36-race schedule, does it mean anything? Does it hold that excitement for the fans?”
—Kyle Petty, Former NASCAR Driver
Furthermore, a full-time points race at Wilkesboro would require NASCAR to adjust its existing schedule, potentially relocating the All-Star Race and displacing a current track’s date. Although there has been talk within the industry about expanding the Cup calendar to 38 races, no official steps toward this increase have been taken.
Significance of the Debate Over Wilkesboro’s Future in NASCAR
The discussion around North Wilkesboro’s role in NASCAR highlights the tension between honoring tradition and managing the sport’s ongoing growth. Bowman’s and Earnhardt Jr.’s efforts reflect a strong grassroots movement to preserve dark horse venues with deep fan engagement, while voices like Petty’s caution against oversaturation that could weaken that enthusiasm.
With track renovations complete and fan support high, a points race at North Wilkesboro would mark a significant milestone in NASCAR’s evolving landscape. This decision will likely shape how the sport balances historic venues with modern commercial demands, impacting driver schedules, fan experiences, and NASCAR’s calendar for years to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Alex Bowman get a brain injury?
A. In 2022, Bowman’s season started strong by qualifying second for the Daytona 500. However, on lap 63, he crashed into Harrison Burton’s car as it flipped.