As the sun rises over Daytona Beach, Florida, anticipation brews for the 67th running of the prestigious DAYTONA 500. Known as the Great American Race, this event serves as the official kickoff of the NASCAR Cup Series season, featuring 36 points-paying races leading up to the championship at Phoenix Raceway in November.
On race day, Hendrick Motorsports is looking to claim its 10th victory in this iconic event, which would put the team in sole possession of the record for most all-time wins. Last year, William Byron brought home the title, narrowly beating teammate Alex Bowman in a thrilling finish marked by a caution flag just after the white flag was displayed.
Byron will be starting in a strong fifth position this year, while Chase Elliott will start 17th. Unfortunately, Kyle Larson and Alex Bowman will be racing backup cars after sustaining damage in Thursday’s Duel at Daytona qualifying races.
The DAYTONA 500 is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, and will be broadcast live on Fox. The race will consist of 200 laps over the 2.5-mile tri-oval track at Daytona International Speedway, totaling 500 miles.
Weather conditions could play a role today, with forecasts indicating a 70% chance of rain around 3 p.m. Last year’s race was delayed until Monday afternoon due to weather, which adds an element of unpredictability to today’s events.
As fans settle in to witness the excitement of the DAYTONA 500, attention will also turn to the starting lineup, which includes prominent drivers like Chase Briscoe, Austin Cindric, and Denny Hamlin among many others.
In conclusion, the DAYTONA 500 promises to deliver thrilling racing action, topped with the hope that weather conditions will cooperate, allowing fans to enjoy the spectacle of stock car racing at its finest.