Ryan Preece claimed his first NASCAR Cup Series win during the CookOut Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on Wednesday night, despite challenging conditions involving sleet and a wet track. Although the victory is cannot be applied to season points because the event is an exhibition race, it still stands as a milestone for Preece and his team.
Exhibition Race Sees Treacherous Weather Impact Competition
The CookOut Clash was heavily affected by weather, as rain mixed with sleet during a mid-race break forced NASCAR officials to mandate a tire switch to wet-weather tires. The slick and slippery track led to numerous caution periods, making the event one of the most stoppage-filled NASCAR races on record. Drivers faced difficulties maintaining control, with Denny Hamlin losing his car after the restart and causing a collision that involved pole-sitter Kyle Larson and fellow competitor Kyle Busch.
The frequent cautions extended the race well beyond its scheduled finish, forcing FOX network to transfer coverage to FS2 after delays pushed the conclusion close to 10:00 p.m. Eastern, nearly two hours past the planned end time. Temperatures hovered just above freezing, ranking this event as one of the coldest in NASCAR history.
Top Finishers and Emotional Victory Lane Moment
Alongside Preece’s win, William Byron finished second, followed by Ryan Blaney in third, Daniel Suarez fourth, and Denny Hamlin fifth. After the race, Preece expressed deep emotion in victory lane, recalling the uncertainty he faced two years ago about his racing future.
“Two years ago, I didn’t think I had a job,”
Ryan Preece told Fox Sports post-race.
“I thought I was going back to Connecticut. I’m super super super emotional.”
– Ryan Preece, NASCAR driver
Denny Hamlin Reflects on Difficult Offseason Challenges
Denny Hamlin, who managed to finish fifth despite the difficult conditions, has endured significant personal hardships during the offseason. His parents’ house experienced a devastating fire that tragically claimed his father’s life and left his mother injured. In a pre-race press conference, Hamlin shared that his mother is currently recuperating in Florida with family support. He also revealed that he suffered a fall inside the damaged home, aggravating a previously repaired torn labrum. Despite these setbacks, Hamlin committed to racing the entire upcoming season and plans additional surgery after the 2026 season concludes.
Looking Ahead to Daytona 500 Week Events
Following the CookOut Clash, NASCAR Cup Series teams will proceed with practice and qualifying sessions for the Daytona 500 next Wednesday evening. The Duel races to finalize the field for the Daytona 500 are scheduled for Thursday. The 60th annual running of the Daytona 500 will take place on Sunday, February 15, starting at 2:30 p.m. Eastern, broadcast on FOX.
