The Daytona 500 is more than just NASCAR’s season opener—it sets the tone for the entire year. However, as anticipation builds for the 2025 edition, so do concerns about the weather. Rain has already caused disruptions, forcing teams to adjust their plans.
After delays on Thursday and Friday, Saturday’s schedule took a major hit. Persistent rain forced NASCAR to shorten the Xfinity Series qualifying session. The morning began with a wet track, delaying the start. Although the rain stopped before qualifying was set to begin, the drying process took time.
Initially, NASCAR attempted to run a single round of qualifying to keep the schedule intact. However, after a few laps, officials decided to cancel the session altogether. As a result, the starting lineup was determined based on 2024 owner points, leaving drivers like JJ Yeley, Carson Ware, and CJ McLaughlin out of the race. JR Motorsports’ Justin Allgaier secured the pole position for the United Rentals 300, with Taylor Gray alongside him on the front row.
Saturday’s weather troubles were just the latest in a string of disruptions. Earlier in the week, heavy rain and thunderstorms forced NASCAR to cancel multiple sessions. ARCA Menards Series practice was the first casualty on Thursday, followed by the Truck Series practice.
Weather-related delays at Daytona are nothing new. Just last year, rain postponed the Daytona 500 to Monday, frustrating teams and fans alike. Now, in 2025, a similar scenario is unfolding. The National Weather Service forecasts mixed conditions for the weekend, keeping everyone on edge.
Saturday started with rain but improved as the day went on. Showers were expected to taper off by early afternoon, with temperatures around 65°F at night. Winds could reach 20 mph, potentially affecting track drying efforts ahead of Sunday’s race.
Sunday remains the biggest concern. A 40% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms puts the Daytona 500 at risk of delays. To counter this, NASCAR has moved the start time up by an hour. If rain disrupts the event, postponement to Monday is a real possibility. Fortunately, Monday’s forecast looks much clearer.
As the weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on the sky. Teams are preparing for any scenario, while NASCAR officials work to keep the schedule on track. If the weather cooperates, fans will witness an action-packed Daytona 500. If not, they may have to wait a little longer for the green flag to wave.
