### NASCAR Corrects Record Books, Awards Bobby Allison 85th Cup Series Win

In a long-awaited move, NASCAR has officially granted Hall of Famer Bobby Allison his 85th Cup Series victory, after amending records regarding a contentious 1971 race at Bowman Gray Stadium. This change propels the 86-year-old Alabama driver to fourth place on the all-time win list, surpassing Darrell Waltrip's 84 wins. The announcement was personally delivered to Allison by NASCAR CEO Jim France and vice chairman Mike Helton.

Allison clinched the disputed win at the Myers Brothers Memorial 250 on August 6, 1971, at the quarter-mile oval in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Driving a Ford Mustang, Allison outpaced Richard Petty by a three-second margin. However, controversy marred the event, as it featured both Grand National (now Cup Series) cars and Grand American "pony cars" in a combined race. Petty led for the first 112 laps but had to pit, allowing Allison to take the lead and maintain it for the remaining 138 laps without any pit stops.

The integration of Grand American cars, perceived to have an edge on the smaller track, sparked tension and threats from Grand National teams. Although Allison received the trophy, NASCAR initially ruled there would be no official winner, as Grand National participants claimed such wins should not count towards their records. Petty vocalized his discontent, arguing that races should strictly feature cars from the respective divisions.

The debate reignited recently with NASCAR's decision to host the 2025 Clash exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 2, the first Cup Series event there since 1971. Jim France stated that it was time to correct the historical oversight and recognize Allison’s victory.

Over his distinguished career, Allison has achieved several milestones, including three Daytona 500 wins, with his final triumph in the 1988 race where he finished 1-2 with his son, Davey. He was also crowned Cup Series champion in 1983. The belated acknowledgment of his 85th win further cements his legacy in the annals of NASCAR history.