When does the Daytona 500 start? NASCAR's signature race moved up an hour due to expected rain

In a proactive move to outrun a rainy forecast, NASCAR has shifted the start of the 68th running of the Daytona 500. Originally scheduled for later in the afternoon, the Great American Race will now see its television coverage and green flag drop earlier on Sunday to maximize the window of clear weather.

Officials made the decision Saturday after meteorologists predicted a significant chance of heavy precipitation moving into the Daytona Beach area by late evening, potentially threatening the completion of the full 200-lap event. By adjusting the schedule, NASCAR hopes to crown a winner on the track rather than facing a potential delay or a rain-shortened finish.

Here's the new start time for the highly-anticipated race.

MORE: List of every Daytona 500 winer

When does the Daytona 500 start?

The 68th running of the Daytona 500 is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026.

NASCAR has officially moved the start time up by one hour to get ahead of the rain. 

• TV Coverage Begins: 1:30 PM ET 
• Green Flag (Race Start): Approximately 2:14 PM ET

Meteorologists are tracking a significant weather system expected to bring heavy rain to the Daytona Beach area late Sunday evening. By moving the green flag up, NASCAR officials hope to complete the full 200-lap (500-mile) distance before the storm arrives.

MORE: Full list of Daytona 500 drivers

Why was the Daytona 500 start time moved up?

NASCAR moved the start time of the 2026 Daytona 500 up by one hour as a proactive measure to avoid heavy rain and thunderstorms forecasted for Sunday evening.

By shifting the schedule earlier, officials are attempting to secure a large enough weather window to complete the full 200-lap race on Sunday. 

NASCAR needs to reach the halfway point (100 laps / 250 miles) for the race to be considered official if rain eventually forces a stoppage.

MORE: How long is the Daytona 500?

Daytona 500 weather forecast

For Sunday, February 15, in Daytona Beach, the forecast calls for rain during the day with a high temperature of 75°F. The chance of precipitation is 35% during the day, increasing to an 85% chance of light rain at night. Winds are expected to be 17 mph from the south.

Based on the latest trends for race day, the threat of precipitation increases as the day progresses.

MORE: Is Travis Pastrana racing in the Daytona 500?

Daytona 500 starting grid