CONCORD, N.C. - Once again, NASCAR Cup Series fans will have a couple new, caveats to consider when it comes to this year's All-Star Race.
NASCAR announced the format on Wednesday morning with the event, slated for May 18 at North Wilkesboro Speedway, punctuated by a 250-lap main feature that will conclude a busy weekend of racing. That represents a 50-lap increase from the previous two years at North Wilkesboro.
And that's hardly the only change. New this year is an optional "promoter's caution", in which NASCAR may throw a random, yellow flag any time prior to lap 220. However, the promoter's caution may not be used if a natural caution flag flies after lap 200.
Also, a Manufacturer Showdown will be implemented this year. Whichever manufacturer has the fewest number of participants; an equal number will be taken from each of the other two with drivers from the three competing against each other.
Each of Hendrick Motorsports' four drivers have already qualified for the main event via wins in the in 2024 and 2025 seasons.
NASCAR All-Star Open
Other facets of the event remain largely intact. Sunday's events will include the All-Star Open, a 100-lap event for all drivers not already qualified for the main event. The top three finishers will advance.
NASCAR All-Star fan vote
Along with the release of the format on Wednesday, the All-Star fan vote was also opened, allowing fans the opportunity to vote one driver into the field that has not qualified otherwise. Fans may vote up to five times a day and the poll will close at midnight on May 18.
NASCAR All-Star pit crew challenge
Finally, the Pit Crew Challenge returns with a couple of minor tweaks. Teams in the All-Star Race and the All-Star Open will compete in a combined qualifying session consisting of a three-lap run including a mandatory, four-tire pit stop on lap two. Timing lines on pit road will be used to determine the fastest stop with the winning crew being rewarded first choice in pit-stall selections. All crews are eligible this year.
NASCAR All-Star Race tickets
Tickets for NASCAR All-Star Race weekend can still be purchased through North Wilkesboro Speedway.
NASCAR All-Star Race schedule
Friday, May 16
- 5:05 p.m. - Cup Series practice
- 6:10 - NASCAR Pit Crew Challenge/qualifying
Saturday, May 17
- 1:30 p.m. - NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race
- 5:20 - Cup Series, All-Star Race Heat 1
- 6:15 - Cup Series, All-Star Race Heat 2
Sunday, May 18
- 5:30 p.m. - Cup Series, All-Star Open
- 8 - Cup Series All-Star Race