Daytona 500 2025; Chase Briscoe Takes Pole as NASCAR Season Kicks Off

2025-03-02

The 67th running of the Daytona 500, NASCAR’s most prestigious event, kicked off the 2025 Cup Series season on Sunday, February 16, at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. The race, scheduled for 200 laps and 500 miles, was broadcast nationally on FOX, with streaming options available via the FOX Sports app and other platforms.

Chase Briscoe secured the pole position, with 2022 Daytona 500 champion Austin Cindric starting on the outside row. Notable drivers like Martin Truex Jr., Jimmie Johnson, and four-time Indy 500 champion Helio Castroneves faced challenges starting from the back of the grid. Hendrick Motorsports, aiming for its 10th Daytona 500 victory, saw William Byron, the 2024 winner, starting fifth, while teammates Kyle Larson and Alex Bowman were forced to use backup cars after crashes during Thursday’s qualifying races.

The race began at 1:30 p.m. ET, with weather forecasts predicting a 70% chance of afternoon rain showers. Fans could watch the event for free through various streaming trials. The Daytona 500 marks the start of a 36-race Cup Series season, culminating in the championship at Phoenix Raceway in November.