The much-anticipated NASCAR Cup Series North Wilkesboro return is set to break a 29-year hiatus, as North Wilkesboro Speedway prepares to host its first championship points-paying race since 1996 on July 19. This event marks a significant comeback for the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway, which last welcomed the top-tier series in September 1996.
End of a 29-Year Absence for North Wilkesboro Speedway
North Wilkesboro Speedway, located in Wilkes County, has long stood as an iconic short track in NASCAR‘s history. Its final Cup Series race, the Tyson Holly Farms 400, was held on September 29, 1996. During this memorable event, Jeff Gordon dominated by leading more than half the race and clinching the victory, while Dale Earnhardt and Dale Jarrett completed the top three. This race became a fitting conclusion for a venue treasured by fans and drivers alike since NASCAR’s formative years.
The closure of North Wilkesboro followed the 1995 passing of its longtime owner, Enoch Staley. The track was subsequently acquired by Bruton Smith and Bob Bahre, key figures in motorsport development. Their decision to redistribute the track’s two Cup dates led to the races moving to Texas Motor Speedway and New Hampshire Motor Speedway in 1997. This shift ended North Wilkesboro’s role as a regular stop on the Cup Series schedule.
Revival Driven by Nostalgia and Fan Support
For years after its closing, North Wilkesboro Speedway symbolized both lost heritage and fan devotion. Supporters, along with past drivers, championed the idea of restoring the venue to the NASCAR circuit. Through substantial state and federal investment, the speedway began its revival, eventually securing the return of high-profile racing. These efforts were rewarded when North Wilkesboro hosted the NASCAR All-Star Race in both 2023 and 2024, showcasing its enduring charm and fierce competition.
A New Era Begins with a Points Race
The 2026 season brings a pivotal change with North Wilkesboro’s reinstatement as a points race location. Scheduled on July 19, the race follows the All-Star Race’s move to Dover Motor Speedway. This strategic move by Speedway Motorsports LLC. enabled North Wilkesboro to gain a high-stakes event, renewing its prestige within the Cup Series calendar.
In addition to the NASCAR Cup Series, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will headline the schedule on Saturday, July 18, turning the entire weekend into a celebration of racing’s past and present. The collaborative efforts from Speedway Motorsports LLC. and persistent fan advocacy were key in making this landmark move possible.
Significance for Racing Fans and the Series
The NASCAR Cup Series North Wilkesboro return is about more than just racing; it’s a story about heritage, the power of nostalgic appeal, and the continuing influence of dedicated supporters. The restoration of such an iconic venue acknowledges the enduring fan demand for short-track competition, while introducing fresh energy for drivers and teams alike. As the engines come to life on July 19, the storied past of North Wilkesboro will once again resonate, inspiring a new wave of unforgettable moments in NASCAR history.
