Daytona 500 start time moved up due to weather concerns

Field Level Media|published: Sat 14th February, 12:52 2026

Feb 13, 2026; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Busch (8) during practice for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

NASCAR moved up the start time for Sunday's Daytona 500 by one hour due to the threat of inclement weather.

The National Weather Service forecast calls for a 50% chance of rain Sunday afternoon, with the chances rising as the day goes on. Officials hope the time change will allow drivers to finish all 500 miles on Sunday.

Rain is nothing new for "The Great American Race." The Daytona 500 was postponed to a Monday finish in 2024 and featured a 3 1/2-hour delay last year.

Pole winner Kyle Busch and Chase Briscoe will share the front row when the green flag waves to start the race at 2:13 p.m. ET.

--Field Level Media

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