NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. (AP) — The NASCAR All-Star Race is staying in North Wilkesboro.

North Wilkesboro Speedway officials announced Friday that the short track will host the annual $1 million exhibition race for the third straight year on May 18, 2025. The announcement comes as the track prepares to host this year’s All-Star Race on Sunday night under the lights.

NASCAR returned to the refurbished racetrack last year for the first time since 1996. The track has been repaved over the last year.

“I think it is a good thing,” Cup Series driver Chase Elliott said. “This place has been around for a long time and is in the heart of NASCAR land with Charlotte being right down the road. Personally, I was excited to see that they spent a lot of money to repave the place because that told me it was going to be around for awhile. The fan turnout was great last year and I hope that continues.”