Bobby Allison's 1971 Win Finally Officially Recognized

After 53 years, NASCAR has officially recognized Bobby Allison as the winner of the 1971 Myers Brothers Memorial race at Bowman Gray Stadium, granting him his 85th career Cup Series victory and moving him to fourth on the all-time wins list. The race was initially voided due to controversy over Allison driving a Grand American car against Grand National cars, leading to complaints from competitors like Richard Petty. This decision to rectify the record was made in light of NASCAR's upcoming return to Bowman Gray Stadium and was personally conveyed to Allison by NASCAR CEO Jim France and senior advisor Mike Helton. The recognition resolves one of NASCAR's longest-standing disputes and acknowledges Allison's significant contributions to the sport. Allison's updated win total places him behind only Richard Petty, David Pearson, and Jeff Gordon in all-time victories. This change also necessitates updates to Allison's record in the NASCAR Hall of Fame.