Kyle Larson, the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion, captured the pole position for the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, setting a tone for the 2026 season. By achieving this top spot in qualifying, Larson will anchor the front row for the anticipated event, marking a pivotal start for Hendrick Motorsports at the historic venue.
Larson’s Strong Start at Bowman Gray Stadium
Larson locked in pole position with a speed of 63.663 mph, establishing strong momentum heading into the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series opener. He will be joined by fellow Hendrick Motorsports driver William Byron on the front row, with Ty Gibbs, Chase Briscoe, and Christopher Bell filling out the top five qualifiers. This lineup is notable, as no winner of the Clash at a quarter-mile track has ever come from outside the top two starting rows, adding further weight to Larson’s achievement.
Top Qualifiers Set the Stage for the Main Event
The remainder of the top ten qualifiers for the Cook Out Clash includes Denny Hamlin, Bubba Wallace, Chris Buescher, Ross Chastain, and Tyler Reddick. Daniel Suarez secured 20th place in qualifying, granting him the final guaranteed spot in the 200-lap main event, which will take place at 6 p.m. ET at Bowman Gray Stadium. The field’s depth is further highlighted by the competitive nature of the entries, with hopes running high for several leading contenders.
Last-Chance Qualifier Adds Final Drama
Josh Berry, qualifying 21st, earned the pole for the 75-lap last-chance race set for 4:30 p.m. The results of this race will determine the last three starters in the main event—two from the top finishers of the qualifier, and the highest finisher in 2025 points standings who has yet to advance. With a packed schedule and intense competition, anticipation runs high for all teams and spectators.
Main Event Broadcast and What’s Ahead
Following the crucial last-chance qualifier, the main event for the Cook Out Clash will air on FOX at 6 p.m. ET, with fans eager to see if Larson’s pole position translates into victory. With key figures like Chris Buescher, Daniel Suarez, Tyler Reddick, Denny Hamlin, Bubba Wallace, and Ross Chastain also in contention, the stage is set for an exciting race at the iconic Bowman Gray Stadium. The strong showing by Hendrick Motorsports, particularly with William Byron joining Larson at the front, points to a competitive and unpredictable opener as the 2026 NASCAR season gets underway.
