DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Gentlemen will start their engines an hour earlier on Sunday at the Daytona 500 as NASCAR prepares for weather issues.
The Great American Race will now start at 1:30 p.m.
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Parking lots will open at 6 a.m., the Hard Rock Bet Fanzone will open at 8:30 a.m., and gates and hospitality will now open at 9 a.m.
Our News 6 meteorologists say a cold front is expected to come in on Sunday, but there is a lag in when the front comes in. The rain chances will increase, but depending on timing it could lead to a dreaded rain delay.
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Officials with Daytona International Speedway say security measures have been increased, so attendees should plan to arrive early, expect enhanced screening processes and longer entry lines and allow extra time for traffic delays as well.
The city of Daytona Beach used social media to disseminate the following traffic advice on Friday, suggesting that drivers not attending the races try to avoid the roads around Daytona International Speedway whenever possible on Sunday:
If you’re not going to the races, it is recommended to avoid the roads around Daytona International Speedway when possible, especially International Speedway Boulevard (ISB), Williamson Boulevard, Midway Avenue, Bill France Boulevard, Fentress Boulevard, Richard Petty Boulevard, and Clyde Morris Boulevard.
Alternate roadways include:
- Beville Road and Ridgewood Avenue (U.S. 1)
- Mason Avenue
For those going north or south, we suggest these roads instead of I-95 or Williamson Boulevard:
- Atlantic Avenue (S.R. A1A)
- Clyde Morris Boulevard
- Nova Road (S.R. 5A)
- Ridgewood Avenue (U.S. 1)
Daytona Beach Police will have additional law enforcement officers present to assist in managing increased traffic and ensuring public safety.
City of Daytona Beach on Facebook | 4:48 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, 2025 (excerpt)
Fans can find additional schedule details for pre-race festivities in the fan guide at daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
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