The NASCAR All-Star Race is set to return to North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina for its third consecutive year, bringing new elements to the race format and schedule at the 0.625-mile oval. The event will take place over the weekend, featuring Cup cars practicing and qualifying on Friday, heat races on Saturday, followed by the Open and All-Star Race on Sunday night.
Notable changes this year include the introduction of a “promoter’s caution,” which can be called before Lap 220 of the 250-lap main event. Additionally, a new “Manufacturer Showdown” will create a competitive atmosphere between Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, competing for the best combined overall finish in the All-Star Race. The Pit Crew Challenge will also occur during Friday’s qualifying sessions, impacting pit selection for the main event on Sunday.
The defending champion of the All-Star Race is Joey Logano, while Kyle Larson clinched victory at the inaugural North Wilkesboro All-Star Race in 2023. Alongside the All-Star festivities, the CARS Tour, Camping World Truck Series, and Whelen Modified Tour will also showcase their talents at North Wilkesboro this weekend.
The schedule for the All-Star Race weekend is as follows:
**Friday, May 16**
– Garage open: 10:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. (Cup), 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Truck Series)
– Track activity includes Cup practice, All-Star Race qualifying, and a CARS Tour race at 8:15 p.m.
**Saturday, May 17**
– Garage open: 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (Truck Series), 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. (Cup)
– Activities include Truck practice, Truck qualifying, and two All-Star Heat races in the evening.
**Sunday, May 18**
– Garage open: 7 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Whelen Modified Tour), 2 – 11:55 p.m. (Cup)
– The day features Whelen Modified Tour practice, qualifying, an Open race, and culminates in the All-Star Race.
Weekend weather forecasts suggest a mix of clouds with a chance of showers, but the event is expected to proceed with better conditions on race day.
With a mix of thrilling racing, competitive excitement among manufacturers, and a great gathering of fans, the All-Star Race weekend promises to be an event filled with entertainment and high-stakes racing.