The Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina serves as the opening round of the NASCAR Chase for the Cup Series, a high‑stakes ten‑race stretch that determines the championship contender. Scheduled for Sunday, September 6 at 5 p.m. ET, the event will be broadcast live on USA and streamed on Sling, giving fans multiple ways to watch the action.
Darlington’s distinctive egg‑shaped layout makes it one of the most demanding circuits on the NASCAR calendar, testing drivers’ skill and endurance. This week, Denny Hamlin sits atop the points standings among the 16 playoff‑eligible drivers, positioning him as the early favorite to carry the momentum into the Chase.
The Track’s Unique Challenge
The oval’s irregular shape forces drivers to navigate a fine line between speed and control, making strategic pit stops and precise car setup essential for success. The combination of tight turns and long straightaways creates a test of both bravery and technique that defines the Southern 500.
In addition to the Southern 500, seven of the ten remaining Cup Series races will air on USA, including the upcoming event at Iowa Speedway. The combination of traditional broadcast and streaming options ensures broad accessibility for viewers across the country.
A wild finish at Daytona last weekend saw Ryan Preece of RFK Racing capture a cutoff victory, locking him into the postseason and adding a fresh narrative to the Chase picture. His win underscores the unpredictability that defines the playoff format, where a single race can reshape the championship landscape.