When NASCAR proposed bizarre caution rule during All-Star race in 1987

Modified Apr 24, 2025 17:52 GMT

NASCAR: NASCAR All-Star Race - Source: Imagn — NASCAR Cup Series driver Bubba Wallace (23) is challenged by driver Josh Berry (4) and driver Alex Bowman (48) during the All Star Open race at North Wilkesboro Speedway on May 19, 2024. Image: Imagn

About 38 years ago, NASCAR saw an unusual proposal for the Cup Series non-championship exhibition race, which would allow one driver to call for caution flags whenever he wanted.

Before the third running of the annual NASCAR All-Star Race in 1987, or "The Winston" as it was called then, it was suggested that the previous race winner or pole sitter could radio the control tower and ask them to throw a caution flag two times during the race.

"To keep the race close, the leading winner or pole man can call for 2 four lap caution periods at his discretion. It will be mandatory to call for those cautions by that driver but they are his pick," the proposal read.

"The race needs to be different as far as possible from the Busch Clash and to do that more cars and unique twists should be used. We need to make this weekend contain elements not available at other Winston Cup events."

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The 1987 All-Star Race still turned out to be memorable. That year, seven-time NASCAR Cup champion Dale Earnhardt pulled off his famous "pass in the grass" while battling with Bill Elliott and won the race.

NASCAR's first All-Star Race ended in controversy

The first All-Star Race was held at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 1985. Only 12 drivers who had won races the year before were allowed to take part, and NASCAR legend Darrell Waltrip ended up winning the race in a controversial finish.

Waltrip, who drove the No. 11 Chevrolet for Junior Johnson, passed race leader Harry Gant just two laps before the finish, and right after he crossed the line, his engine blew up. However, some believed the engine was expired on purpose to avoid the post-race inspection. Waltrip and Johnson denied cheating, but the former driver explained during a 2019 interview on Fox that the car was only built to last 100 miles.

"Junior Johnson wanted to be the first one to win. That's the car we take to the wind tunnel. It's a Twisted Sister. We've done everything to it you can imagine to get the most downforce, to make it the best car we possibly could. And Junior ground a set of rods to make them as light as you possibly could, and only run as long as he thought they should be able to run," Waltrip said (01:00 onwards).

"That was the gamble you took, build something that you knew you could win with, with a chance that something could happen to it before that race ended," he added.

Waltrip added that NASCAR gave teams more freedom during those years, and they used it to their advantage. He also collected his third and final NASCAR Cup title that season.

About the author

Palak Gupta is a dynamic motorsports writer with a unique blend of experience in economics and a passion for storytelling. Her enthusiasm for writing and a keen interest in racing steered her toward this field. With two years of professional writing experience, Palak has previously worked with Bhoomi, a non-profit organization, and as a content executive at MoreTasks Business Solution.

To maintain accuracy and uphold journalistic integrity, Palak relies on reputable sources such as official websites, trusted news outlets, and credible channels, while also keeping an eye on trends across social media platforms and forums like Reddit. She actively follows developments in motorsports, constantly seeking unique angles for her stories to deliver fresh and engaging content to her readers.

Inspired by Ross Chastain’s unconventional yet spectacular wall ride during the 2022 NASCAR season, Palak appreciates daring moves that defy norms and capture the spirit of motorsports. Although she doesn't have a favorite driver, she admires such moments that make history.

While she recognizes that NASCAR may never reach the global prominence of Formula 1, Palak suggests expanding internationally and investing in technology to grow its audience. Palak is also an avid movie and documentary enthusiast, enjoys gardening, and loves to sketch and paint in her spare time.

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Edited by Rupesh