Daytona 500 rescheduled for historic Monday doubleheader after rain delay

Heavy rain in Florida has led to the postponement of NASCAR‘s 66th annual Daytona 500, originally scheduled for Sunday, Feb 18. This marks the first full-day postponement of the event since 2012, shifting gears from its original plans and setting the stage for a historic Monday at Daytona International Speedway.

For the first time, fans will experience a groundbreaking doubleheader, featuring the Daytona 500 and the rain-delayed Xfinity Series race, both taking place on the same day. This unprecedented scheduling offers race enthusiasts a full day of high-speed action, a treat for those attending and watching from home.

Despite the delay, NASCAR and Daytona still hosted several prerace activities, featuring appearances by singer and Trackhouse Racing co-owner Pitbull, as well as actor Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

Former Daytona 500 champion Joey Logano clinched the pole position in Wednesday’s Cup Series qualifying, with 2021 race winner Michael McDowell joining him on the front row, both driving Fords.

Rain has impacted the Daytona 500 in the past, shortening races in 1965, 1966, 2003, and 2009. The 2012 race was postponed to Monday night due to rain, finishing after midnight on Tuesday.

Similarly, in 2020, the race started on Sunday but was delayed by rain shortly after the start, concluding on Monday evening. The 2021 race also ran into early Monday. Notably, the 2012 and 2020 races were significantly affected by rain, with the entire 2012 event and the remainder of the 2020 race moved to Monday.

The Weather Channel predicts light rain in Daytona Beach Monday morning but expects conditions to clear by early afternoon, promising a smoother start to the day’s events.