By so many metrics, the NASCAR Cup Series’ season-opening event was a hit.

Chase Elliott exited his race-winning car to a delighted standing-room only crowd cheering wildly in Bowman Gray Stadium."I hope we didn't disappoint," Elliott said. "It was fun for me at least. We'll hopefully come back here one day.

Chase Elliott, driver of the No. 9 NAPA Chevrolet Camaro, took home the win in the first Cup event at Bowman Gray in the modern era. This marks the fourth season the Clash has been held outside Daytona International Speedway, where it was traditionally raced on the famed high banks through the 2020 season.