What time is the Daytona 500 on today? Weather forecast for NASCAR's Great American Race

Daytona Beach, Florida is set for the start of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, but race fans will see a slightly adjusted schedule. Due to an approaching weather system, the green flag for the 68th running of the Daytona 500 has been moved up to 1:30 p.m. ET. Television coverage will be provided by Fox, with audio broadcasts available on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM’s NASCAR Channel.

A Shift in Schedule

NASCAR officials announced the time change just one day before the scheduled February 15th season opener. Weather forecasts, according to WeatherUnderground, currently predict a 77-degree temperature and a 1% chance of rain at the revised start time. However, the likelihood of precipitation is expected to increase after 6 p.m. Given the typical three-hour duration of the Daytona 500, this adjustment aims to maximize the opportunity for a full race without weather interruptions.

Busch on the Pole

All eyes will be on Kyle Busch as he starts from the pole position, alongside Chase Briscoe. This is a significant moment for Busch, who is still seeking his first Daytona 500 victory after 20 attempts. He hasn’t started in the top five at Daytona since 2016.

Did You Know? The Daytona 500 has been subject to weather-related delays and postponements since 2012, marking a shift from the first 53 editions which all ran as scheduled.

Adding to the storyline, William Byron enters the race as the two-time defending champion, with a chance to make history as the first driver to win three consecutive Daytona 500s.

A History of Weather Challenges

The Daytona 500 has faced increasing challenges from inclement weather in recent years. In 2014, a delay lasted 6 hours and 22 minutes. The 2020 race was postponed after just 20 laps. Further disruptions occurred in 2021 with a 5-hour and 40-minute red flag, and in 2024, the race was postponed to Monday due to storms. Last year also saw a significant 3-hour, 10-minute red flag early in the race.

Expert Insight: The repeated weather disruptions to the Daytona 500 highlight the inherent risks of outdoor motorsports and the increasing need for contingency planning to ensure the completion of this iconic event.

The early start time is a proactive measure, but the possibility of later-day showers remains a factor that could influence the race’s outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Daytona 500 start now?

The Daytona 500 is now scheduled to start at 1:30 p.m. ET.

Who will start on the pole?

Kyle Busch will start from the pole position.

Has William Byron won the Daytona 500 before?

Yes, William Byron is the two-time defending winner of the Daytona 500.

Will the adjusted schedule be enough to outrun the approaching weather system and allow for a full, uninterrupted race?

What time is the Daytona 500 on today? Weather forecast for NASCAR’s Great American Race