Daytona 500 Start Time Adjusted by NASCAR Due to Incoming Storms

Daytona 500 Start Time Adjusted by NASCAR Due to Incoming Storms

In a proactive response to incoming storms, NASCAR has rescheduled the starting time for the 68th Daytona 500. The race is now set to begin at 1:30 PM EST, one hour earlier than originally planned. This change aims to ensure the event can conclude before inclement weather disrupts activities.

Broadcast and Pre-Race Details

The NASCAR RaceDay pre-race show will also adjust its start time to 11:30 AM EST. Fans can still catch all the action live on FOX. The scheduled time for the green flag to wave is 2:13 PM EST. These changes may lead to the Daytona 500 finishing in daylight for the first time in nearly ten years.

Past Rain-Shortened Races

  • The Daytona 500 has been impacted by rain on four notable occasions: 1965, 1966, 2003, and 2009.
  • The last postponement of the race to Monday occurred in 2024.

Weather Forecast

Current forecasts indicate a possibility of morning showers, with thunderstorms expected after 5 PM EST. The typical runtime for this 500-mile event is around 3.5 hours. If lightning occurs within eight miles of the speedway, the race will be paused.

Noteworthy Race Features

Kyle Busch, driving for Richard Childress Racing, will lead the field. Joining him on the front row is Chase Briscoe from Joe Gibbs Racing. This year’s grand marshal is comedian Nate Bargatze, while actor Kurt Russell will drive the pace car. Bart Simpson will serve as the honorary starter, and Miranda Lambert is set to headline the pre-race concert.

The adjustments made by NASCAR should enhance the Daytona 500 experience for fans and participants alike, minimizing weather-related disruptions. Stay tuned for updates as race day approaches. Find more about the Daytona 500 and its exciting events at Filmogaz.com.