At the 2026 Cook Out Clash held at Bowman Gray Stadium, Ryan Preece secured his first-ever win in the NASCAR Cup Series, marking a breakthrough moment after 214 career starts. The RFK Racing driver battled fiercely through the race and edged out William Byron in the closing laps, delivering a long-awaited triumph that sparked an emotional response.
While the Clash does not award championship points, this victory represents a turning point in Preece’s career, offering both personal validation and momentum heading into the regular season. After crossing the finish line, the #60 driver openly expressed both relief and gratitude, acknowledging the significance of this achievement despite its non-points status.
Reflecting on the Emotional Journey to Victory
Ryan Preece admitted to being overwhelmed and at a loss for words when reflecting on the win, describing it as the result of years of perseverance and dedication within the highest level of stock car racing. He credited key figures such as Brad Keselowski, who brought him to RFK Racing, and the sponsors Kroger and Coca-Cola for their support, alongside team owners Jack Roush and Fenway Group, who helped make the victory possible.
“I don’t even know what to say, To be honest with you, it’s been a f**king long road. It’s the Clash but man, it’s been years and years of grinding, and I’m just super thankful for Brad Keselowski, Kroger, Coca-Cola, all our partners — break open the Pappy — Jack Roush, the Fenway Group.”
Ryan Preece said.
Preece reflected on the uncertainty he faced two years earlier following his departure from Stewart-Haas Racing, when he feared losing his place in NASCAR and possibly returning to his hometown in Connecticut to pursue a different path. His emotional reaction underscored how deeply the win resonated given those difficult times.
“Two years ago, I didn’t think I was gonna have a job. I thought I was going back to Connecticut. Man, I’m just super, super, super emotional.”
Ryan Preece added.
Commending RFK Racing’s Role in the Victory
The performance of RFK Racing was pivotal in Ryan Preece’s breakthrough, providing him with a highly competitive car capable of battling the field. Throughout the race, Preece overcame various challenges including adverse weather delays and strategic restarts that worked in his favor, allowing him to move from the back of the pack toward the front.
The closing stages featured intense competition with William Byron, where Preece’s resilience and the team’s preparation culminated in the crucial win. He praised the quality of the vehicle and the mental fortitude needed to prevail in a race filled with ups and downs.
“We had a really good car, and I felt like we were fighting through adversity all day, this is as much a mental game as anything, and I felt beat up. We had a couple restarts go our way and before you know it, we were in the front two rows and then the claws just come out. … I’m speechless, man. That last two laps — I’m speechless.”
Ryan Preece noted
Looking Ahead to Daytona 500 With Renewed Confidence
With the season opener behind him, Ryan Preece now shifts focus to the upcoming Daytona 500, one of NASCAR’s most prestigious races. Success at Daytona would solidify his progress and amplify his potential as a championship contender in the Cup Series. The victory at Bowman Gray Stadium builds important confidence, suggesting that Preece is poised to keep challenging the frontrunners in the months ahead.
This breakthrough not only marks the end of a strenuous journey but also signals the start of a new chapter for Preece and RFK Racing, who will aim to translate this momentum into points-paying wins and a competitive showing throughout the 2026 season.
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