The NASCAR Cup Series will make a highly anticipated return to North Wilkesboro Speedway on July 19, 2026, marking the first points race at the historic track in three decades. The Window World 400, a 400-lap event, will be held at the five-eighths-mile oval, reigniting a legacy last witnessed in 1996 when Jeff Gordon secured victory in the final points race at the venue.
This revival will see today’s leading drivers, including Joey Logano, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, William Byron, and Denny Hamlin, compete for championship points, connecting the sport’s rich past with its dynamic present.
North Wilkesboro’s Revival through Recent NASCAR Events
North Wilkesboro Speedway is one of NASCAR’s original circuits and has recently hosted the past three NASCAR All-Star Races, drawing rave reviews from fans and insiders alike. The most recent May event showcased a fierce duel between Joey Logano and Christopher Bell, bringing intense short-track racing excitement back to the famed oval. The vibrant support from fans and sponsors during these events has laid the foundation for the upcoming championship race.
Speedway Motorsports President and CEO Marcus Smith highlighted the track’s unique challenges, stating,
“This year reminded everyone how great the action is at North Wilkesboro Speedway, It’s a challenge for the drivers and the teams to master this short track and because of that, you don’t know who’s going to win until the checkered flag flies.”
—Marcus Smith, Speedway Motorsports President and CEO
A Night of Intense Racing Awaits in the Window World 400
The Window World 400 promises to be an electrifying night race, featuring 400 laps of sustained, wheel-to-wheel competition. Unlike shorter contests, this event will test driver stamina, team strategy, and car performance over a longer distance. The stakes are high, as the race winner will earn a coveted spot in the NASCAR Playoffs, adding significance beyond prize money and prestige.
Reflecting on the upcoming race, Marcus Smith said,
“It’s going to be cool to see 400 laps of wheel-to-wheel racing under the lights at North Wilkesboro and how the strategies in a longer race play out. Whoever wins the Window World 400 will really have to earn it, because now, it’s about more than big money and bragging rights. There’s a playoff berth on the line.”
—Marcus Smith, Speedway Motorsports President and CEO
Supporting Events: NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series also Returns
Alongside the Cup Series event, the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series will race on Saturday, July 18, 2026, with a 250-lap contest at North Wilkesboro Speedway. The Truck Series made its debut at this track in 1996 and was brought back in 2023, maintaining a continuous presence while further igniting local and national interest. Additional event details about schedules, entertainment, and broadcasting will be released closer to the race date.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Celebrates North Wilkesboro’s Return to NASCAR Playoffs Contention
Dale Earnhardt Jr., Chairman of the Board at North Wilkesboro Speedway and a NASCAR Hall of Famer, expressed his excitement for the Cup Series return and the platform it provides for short-track racing. He emphasized the importance of this milestone within NASCAR’s broader history.
“You know I’m a big believer in the value of short track racing and its history in our sport, so to me this is the biggest news on the 2026 schedule,”
said Earnhardt Jr.
Describing his earlier efforts in 2019 to digitally preserve the track’s essence, he added,
“When I was preparing North Wilkesboro with Marcus (Smith) in 2019 for an iRacing scan, I felt like I was working inside an iconic time capsule. Now the track is more amazing than ever, born again after a lot of dedication and hard work. I can’t wait to see 400 laps of night racing there. It’s massive for the surrounding community, but every fan of NASCAR is going to feel like a winner next July.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., North Wilkesboro Speedway Chairman of the Board and NASCAR Hall of Famer
Window World Becomes Title Sponsor, Strengthening Community Ties
Window World, headquartered locally, will serve as the entitled race sponsor for the NASCAR Cup Series event. This partnership extends the company’s involvement with North Wilkesboro Speedway, which began in 2022 during the track’s revival. Its CEO, Tammy Whitworth, outlined the partnership’s community significance and promotional impact.
“As a North Wilkesboro-based company and knowing what it means to this community, it’s been a true honor and privilege for us to be a partner with North Wilkesboro Speedway throughout their rebirth,”
Whitworth said.
She further emphasized the regional spotlight the race will shine, stating,
“Sponsoring a points race in the NASCAR Cup Series gives us the chance to bring an even greater spotlight on this region and all the good things that happen here. Through our national network of store owners and employees, we’ll do our part to bring positive attention to Wilkes County and the North Carolina mountains next summer.”
—Tammy Whitworth, Window World CEO
Tickets and Fan Engagement Opportunities Available Now
Fans eager to experience NASCAR’s return to North Wilkesboro Speedway can purchase affordable tickets and camping options now through the track’s official website. The event promises not only outstanding racing but also a revived connection to one of NASCAR’s most beloved circuits.
To stay updated on race news, schedules, and other entertainment offerings, fans can follow North Wilkesboro Speedway on social media platforms including X, Instagram, and Facebook.
