The 2026 Coke Zero Sugar 400 will light up Daytona International Speedway on Saturday evening, marking the last race of the regular NASCAR Cup Series season and sealing the 16‑driver Chase field.
Forecasts from the National Weather Service call for a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms between mid‑afternoon and early evening on Saturday, with a 60% probability of precipitation on Sunday, especially from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Rain Outlook Complicates Final Chase Showdown
Historically, Daytona has seen eight race delays due to weather since 1999, a reminder that the sport’s outdoor nature leaves it vulnerable to sudden storms. Organizers are monitoring the situation closely and have contingency plans ready.
The green flag is expected to drop just after 7:30 p.m. local time, giving teams a narrow window to navigate potential rain showers before the night settles in.