Doubleheader Drama Unfolds as Cup Series Hits Atlanta
NASCAR fans are in for a historic Sunday with two major events: the preseason Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium (8 PM ET on Fox) and the second points-paying race of 2025 – the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway (3 PM ET on Fox/USA Network).
Clash Chaos in Winston-Salem
The quarter-mile Bowman Gray Stadium hosts its first Cup Series event since 1971, featuring:
- 23 drivers competing in a 200-lap exhibition race
- Heat race qualifiers including Chase Elliott (pole) and William Byron
- A last-chance qualifier at 6 PM ET for remaining spots
Atlanta’s Superspeedway Showdown
All eyes will be on defending champion Daniel Suárez (+2200 odds) after his 0.003-second victory in 2024 – the fourth-closest finish in NASCAR history. Key storylines:
| Driver | Starting Position | Notable Stat |
|---|---|---|
| Ryan Blaney | 1st | Current points leader (51) |
| William Byron | 16th | Won Daytona 500 last week |
| Corey LaJoie | 34th | +10000 dark horse after strong Daytona run |
Weather & Broadcast Details
Perfect racing conditions expected with 0% rain chance. Key viewing info:
- Atlanta Race Start: 3 PM ET (Fox/USA Network)
- Clash Start: 8 PM ET (Fox)
- Streaming: Available on Fubo and Max
“This track owes me nothing after last year’s finish – but I’ll take another win anyway!” – Daniel Suárez
Hendrick’s Historic Hunt
The Hendrick Motorsports team aims to match its own 1997 record of winning both preseason Clash and first two regular-season races. William Byron’s Daytona 500 victory and Chase Elliott’s Clash win put them halfway to this achievement.
