Daytona 500 Qualifying Set to Begin: What You Need to Know

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — NASCAR’s 2025 season kicks off with the highly anticipated Daytona 500, and qualifying for the prestigious race begins tonight at 8:15 p.m. ET. This marks the first on-track action of Speedweeks, culminating in the 67th running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 16.

Today’s qualifying session will see each of the 45 drivers attempting to secure their position for the race. The top ten fastest cars will earn a chance for a second lap, with the two best times nabbing spots on the front row for Sunday’s event. The rest of the starting lineup will be finalized during the duels on Thursday.

Among the notable drivers vying for a place in the race are Jimmie Johnson, Martin Truex Jr., and Corey LaJoie. Helio Castroneves has already secured a spot in the 500, regardless of his qualifying performance, meaning a full field of 41 drivers could compete at the iconic Daytona International Speedway.

The anticipated pole qualifying is scheduled to be broadcast live on FS1, with streaming options available for those without cable. The Daytona 500 itself will be aired on FOX, with race coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET on the day of the event.

The 2025 Daytona 500 holds particular significance as it celebrates a legacy of racing excellence—the Harley J. Earl Trophy has been awarded since 1959, with legends like Richard Petty and Jeff Gordon among the past champions. This year’s race will feature a diverse mix of veteran and rookie drivers, all hoping to add their names to the list of illustrious victors.

Leading into the weekend, practice sessions for the Cup Series will occur on Wednesday morning, with multiple series events scheduled for the following days. The unpredictable nature of superspeedway racing lends excitement to the qualifying events, with even established favorites potentially facing challenges.

Weather could also play a role in the race weekend, as forecasters predict a 56% chance of rain on Sunday. NASCAR has a history of postposing races due to rain, including three occasions since 2012. However, officials remain hopeful for favorable conditions to ensure a thrilling race.

As the 2025 Daytona 500 draws closer, fans and drivers alike eagerly await the results of tonight’s qualifying and the subsequent race festivities. Stay tuned for updates and enjoy the excitement of Speedweeks.