The 1988 NASCAR Winston Cup Series was the 40th season of professional stock car racing in the United States and the 17th modern-era Cup series. The season began on February 7 at Daytona International Speedway and ended on November 20 at the Atlanta International Speedway. Bill Elliott of Melling Racing won the championship. The 1988 season was notable for hosting the first of two tire wars between Goodyear and Hoosier. 1988 was the first season without NASCAR legend Tim Richmond since 1980.