• Several stock car racing organizations begin turning up in the eastern United States, which rival NASCAR's supremacy in the automobile racing field. All are conducting "Modified" races featuring pre-World War II vehicles with souped-up engines. All stage races with points to declare a "national champion." In order to elevate NASCAR above the other organizations, NASCAR President Bill France Sr. conducts an experimental "Strictly Stock" race on a two-mile circular course on an airport taxiway located in Broward, Fla., on Feb. 27. Benny Georgeson of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is the winner.

• Bill France Sr. announces plans to promote a 150-mile Strictly Stock race at the 0.75-mile Charlotte (N.C.) Speedway on June 19.

• On June 19 33 new late model cars start the race, which was won by Jim Roper of Halstead, Kan. The Strictly Stocks will eventually evolve into NASCAR's Winston Cup Series.

• Eight NASCAR Strictly Stock championship point events are slated during the 1949 season.

• Two-time winner Red Byron wins the championship by 117.5 points over Lee Petty.

• Fonty Flock captures the 1949 NASCAR Modified championship.