Daytona 500 Start Time Adjusted Due to Weather Concerns

NASCAR reschedules the 2025 race to 1:30 p.m. ET to avoid anticipated rain and thunderstorms on Sunday.

The 2025 Daytona 500, originally scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET, will now start at 1:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 16, due to expected adverse weather conditions.
Heavy rain earlier in the week caused disruptions to other Daytona events, including the cancellation of Saturday's Xfinity Series qualifying session and adjustments to other schedules.
Sunday's forecast includes a 40% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms, raising concerns about potential delays or a postponement to Monday.
NASCAR has implemented early opening times for parking lots and gates, along with enhanced security measures, to accommodate fans arriving for the rescheduled start time.
The Daytona 500, held at the Daytona International Speedway, remains a cornerstone event for NASCAR, despite recurring weather challenges at the venue.