NASCAR Cup Race Today: Start Time & TV Channel

By Sarah Miller · May 26, 2029

The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series is now known as the NASCAR Cup Series, and today's race start time varies based on the track, broadcast schedule, and location. As of October 2025, most races begin between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM Eastern Time (ET), with TV coverage typically starting one hour prior. For the most accurate and up-to-date race time for today’s event, check the official NASCAR website or your local broadcaster such as FOX, NBC, or FS1.

Understanding the NASCAR Cup Series Race Schedule

The premier series in NASCAR, formerly called the Sprint Cup Series until 2016, is now officially the NASCAR Cup Series. Races are held nearly every weekend from February through November, with varying start times depending on the venue and television arrangements.

Key Factors That Influence Race Start Times

Track Location: Races in the Eastern or Central time zones typically start earlier than those in Mountain or Pacific zones.
Broadcast Partner: Networks like FOX, NBC, and FS1 determine optimal air times for viewer engagement.
Race Length: Most races are scheduled for approximately 3–4 hours, including potential delays.
Weather Delays: Rain or unsafe track conditions can postpone or reschedule events.
Doubleheader Events: Occasionally, multiple series race on the same day, affecting start windows.

How to Find Today’s NASCAR Cup Series Race Time

If you're asking "what time is the NASCAR Sprint Cup race on today," follow these reliable steps to get real-time updates:

Step-by-Step Guide to Confirming Race Time

Visit the Official NASCAR Schedule: Go to nascar.com and navigate to the “Schedule” tab.
Check the Series Filter: Select “Cup Series” to isolate top-tier race events.
Verify the Date: Ensure you’re viewing today’s date or the closest upcoming race.
Review Broadcast Details: Each event lists the start time in local and Eastern Time, along with the TV network.
Set Reminders: Use the NASCAR app or calendar sync options to receive alerts.

2025 NASCAR Cup Series: Sample Race Weekend Schedule

Race Name	Track	Date	Start Time (ET)	TV Network	Distance
Dover Motor Speedway 400	Dover Motor Speedway	April 27, 2025	2:00 PM	FS1	400 miles
Coca-Cola 600	Charlotte Motor Speedway	May 25, 2025	6:00 PM	FOX	600 miles
Daytona July Race	Daytona International Speedway	July 5, 2025	7:30 PM	NBC	400 miles
Brickyard 400	Indianapolis Motor Speedway	July 20, 2025	2:30 PM	NBC	400 miles
South Point 400	Las Vegas Motor Speedway	September 14, 2025	3:30 PM	USA Network	400 miles

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The table above shows typical start times across different tracks and networks in the 2025 season. Evening races, such as the Coca-Cola 600 and Daytona July event, are scheduled later to maximize prime-time viewership. Daytime races usually begin between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM ET, especially during spring and fall weekends. Broadcast strategy significantly influences timing, with major networks like FOX and NBC prioritizing high-audience slots.

Common Questions About NASCAR Cup Series Race Times

What time does the NASCAR Cup Series race start today?

Today’s NASCAR Cup Series race typically starts between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM Eastern Time, but exact times vary by track and broadcaster. Check nascar.com/schedule for live updates.

Is the NASCAR race on TV today? Which channel?

Yes, most NASCAR Cup Series races are televised. The channel depends on the race week—FOX covers early-season events, while NBC and USA Network broadcast mid-to-late season races. Refer to the official TV schedule for confirmation.

Why do some NASCAR races start in the evening?

Evening races, like the Coca-Cola 600 or Daytona July event, are scheduled for higher TV ratings and better track conditions under lights. Cooler temperatures reduce tire wear and improve safety.

How long does a NASCAR Cup Series race last?

A typical race lasts 3 to 4 hours, but duration can extend due to caution flags, overtime finishes, or weather delays. Some marquee events, like the Daytona 500, may exceed 4 hours.

Can I stream today’s NASCAR race online?

Yes, you can stream the race via services like Fox Sports, NBC Sports, or fuboTV, which offer live streaming with a cable subscription or free trial. The NASCAR app also provides live coverage and real-time updates.

Final Tips for Watching Today’s NASCAR Race

To avoid missing the green flag, always verify the start time using official sources. Time zones, daylight saving changes, and last-minute schedule adjustments can affect broadcast timing. Set calendar reminders, follow NASCAR on social media, and use the NASCAR Track Pass for in-car audio and live scoring. Whether you’re watching the Daytona 500 or a regular-season showdown, knowing when the race starts ensures you don’t miss a lap of the action.