Daytona 500 start time moved up an hour as bad weather looms - ESPN
ESPN
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
NASCAR has moved the start time of Sunday's Daytona 500 up by one hour due to the threat of inclement weather. The race, originally scheduled to begin at 3:13 p.m. ET, will now start at 2:13 p.m. ET at Daytona International Speedway. This decision comes as fans and drivers prepare for what could be a historic event. William Byron is aiming to become the first driver in history to win the Daytona 500 three times in a row, adding even more excitement to this year's race.
Byron won last year's event in dramatic fashion, overtaking eight cars on the final lap after Denny Hamlin was involved in a crash on the last lap. His potential for another victory makes this race highly anticipated. Meanwhile, Kyle Busch secured his first Daytona 500 pole during qualifying, marking a significant milestone in his career. With 21 previous starts at the event, Busch is looking to overcome a challenging streak and start on the right foot.
The Daytona 500 holds immense significance as the season-opening race for NASCAR. It's not just about the competition on the track but also the spectacle surrounding the event. Fans worldwide tune in to witness the drama, high-speed action, and the possibility of history being made. The rescheduled start time aims to avoid potential delays or cancellations due to bad weather, ensuring the race proceeds smoothly.
For sports enthusiasts, this shift highlights the unpredictable nature of live events and the importance of adapting to challenges like weather conditions. The stakes are high for drivers, teams, and fans as they hope for a successful and thrilling event. With Byron's quest for history and Busch's pole
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Originally published on ESPN on 2/14/2026