NASCAR All-Star Race Updates: Adjustments to Heat Races and Event Schedule
North Wilkesboro, NC — NASCAR has announced key adjustments to the format for the upcoming All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. The heat races will now consist of 75 laps—up from the previously scheduled 60 laps—alongside the introduction of a caution on or around lap 30.
The heat races are critical as they dictate the starting lineup for the main event. Heat Race No. 1 will establish the inside row starting positions, while Heat Race No. 2 will set the outside row.
Event Schedule:
Friday, May 16
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All-Star Qualifying:
- Open teams will qualify first, determining their lineup for the All-Star Open.
- All-Star drivers will qualify second, with the fastest driver securing the pole for both Heat Race No. 1 and the All-Star Race.
- Qualifying consists of a timed lap followed by a mandatory four-tire pit stop.
- Pit Crew Challenge:
- The fastest pit crew will earn recognition, and stall selection will be based on this challenge’s results.
Saturday, May 17
- Heat Races:
- Two 75-lap heat races will occur, with all laps counting and overtime rules in effect for one attempt.
Sunday, May 18
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All-Star Open:
- A 100-lap event with a competition break on or around lap 40. The top two finishers will qualify for the All-Star Race, along with a third driver selected by fan vote.
- All-Star Race:
- The main event is set for 250 laps, featuring all laps counted and a competition break at lap 100. A new Promoter’s Caution must be utilized before lap 220; failure to do so will invalidate its use if a natural caution arises.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Winners from the 2024 and 2025 seasons,
- Past All-Star Race victors who race full-time,
- Full-time Cup Series champions.
Confirmed drivers for the All-Star Race include William Byron, Daniel Suarez, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Denny Hamlin, and others, solidifying a competitive field for this year’s event.
As the All-Star Race weekend approaches, teams and fans anticipate an exciting showdown at one of the sport’s iconic tracks.
