For the first time since 1971, the NASCAR Cup Series returns to Bowman Gray Stadium. This year, the Cook Out Clash heads to North Carolina, which starts a busy Cup Series schedule. The Cup Series is the top racing format for NASCAR.

From humble beginnings in the Carolinas and across the southeast, NASCAR has grown into not only the most popular form of auto racing in the United States, but also one that can attract the intrigue and attention of the rest of the world.

Twenty-three cars will race 200 green-flag laps to claim the Cook Out Clash title Feb 2 at Bowman Gray Stadium, NASCAR revealed Tuesday. The 23-car field is the same number of cars that ran in the feature of last year's Clash at the LA Memorial Coliseum.

The Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray stadium will feature a handful of heats and a last chance qualifier ahead of Sunday's main event.

The chartered teams enjoy peace of mind knowing that they will start every points-paying race in the NASCAR season. The post NASCAR: 13 Cup Drivers Could Miss Clash at Bowman Gray After Major Announcement appeared first on EssentiallySports.