Alex Bowman on North Wilkesboro points race has ignited fresh enthusiasm among drivers and fans, as he joins a growing movement supporting a full Cup points event at North Wilkesboro Speedway. The historic track, having been brought back into the spotlight through Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s preservation efforts and NASCAR’s recent All-Star races, is drawing interest for a permanent spot on the schedule.
For years, Dale Earnhardt Jr. spearheaded the revival of North Wilkesboro, first by immortalizing the speedway on iRacing before organizing grassroots events like the CARS Tour. These efforts culminated in NASCAR granting the track the 2023 All-Star Race, setting the stage for a potential return to points-paying Cup Series action.
Alex Bowman and Drivers Rally for a Return
After Christopher Bell’s All-Star Race win, Alex Bowman gave his perspective, recognizing the challenges North Wilkesboro presents logistically but ultimately backing the concept of a Cup points race. Bowman stressed that the All-Star event was significant for drivers and teams due to its length and complexity. He described the atmosphere around the track as unique within the NASCAR circuit, and expressed that the experience rivals even NASCAR’s premier races for excitement and fan energy.
Bowman said,
“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
The driver also pointed to the packed grandstands and vibrant fan pulse that North Wilkesboro continues to generate, noting,
“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
Restoration and Recent Racing Revival
After North Wilkesboro faded from the Cup Series following Jeff Gordon’s victory in 1996, the speedway lingered in obscurity, with only a handful of minor races held in 2010 and 2011. The fortunes of the 0.625-mile oval changed when a $20 million renovation from the American Rescue Plan enabled it to host the 2023 All-Star Race. Despite mixed reviews for the first two All-Star events, the 2025 race transformed the venue’s narrative. The new paving provided multiple racing lanes, and 1,426 green-flag passes showcased the circuit’s ability to deliver thrilling, competitive action. With the stands brimming and excitement surging, North Wilkesboro’s potential as a regular Cup destination was undeniable.
Kyle Petty Voices Concerns Over Points Race Move
While drivers like Alex Bowman and Christopher Bell have championed a Cup points race at North Wilkesboro, Kyle Petty has expressed reservations about such a change. During a discussion on the Fast Talk program on Performance Racing Network, Petty questioned whether making the track another stop on the 36-race Cup calendar could diminish its unique status and allure. He argued that turning North Wilkesboro into a routine venue might erode what makes it special among fans and the racing community.
Petty said,
“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, Commentator and Former Driver
Petty also noted that adding a regular Cup race at North Wilkesboro would necessitate changes elsewhere, such as moving the All-Star Race or removing a date from another track to maintain the 36-race total. Although discussions about expanding the Cup calendar beyond 36 races have circulated, no official action has been taken.
Looking Ahead for North Wilkesboro Speedway
The debate over a Cup points race at North Wilkesboro Speedway highlights a crucial crossroads for NASCAR’s heritage and its future. With prominent voices like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Alex Bowman, and Christopher Bell supporting a points-paying return, the track’s storied past intertwines with a possible resurgence on the national stage. However, concerns about losing the venue’s unique magic—articulated by figures like Kyle Petty—and the logistical challenges of adjusting the Cup schedule, ensure that discussions will continue to be spirited. As fans, drivers, and NASCAR leadership weigh the possibilities, North Wilkesboro’s next step could decide whether it remains a special showcase or returns as a full-fledged championship battleground once again.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Alex Bowman get a brain injury?
A. In 2022, Bowman kicked off his season by securing second place in Daytona 500 qualifying. However, during lap 63, a crash occurred involving him and Harrison Burton’s car flipping.
