The Daytona 500, often referred to as “The Great American Race,” is the crown jewel of the NASCAR Cup Series. As the 2025 season opener, this iconic event promises high-speed action, nail-biting finishes, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or a casual viewer, here’s everything you need to know about where and how to watch the 2025 Daytona 500.
When and Where is the 2025 Daytona 500?
The 2025 Daytona 500 will take place on Sunday, 16 February, at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. Originally scheduled for 2:30 PM ET, the race has been moved up to 1:30 PM ET due to potential inclement weather.
How to Watch the Daytona 500 on TV
The race will be broadcast live on FOX, the official TV channel for the Daytona 500. FOX’s coverage will include:
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Pre-race analysis
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Driver interviews
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The full 200-lap race
If you prefer traditional TV viewing, tune in to FOX at 1:30 PM ET on 16 February.
Streaming Options for the Daytona 500
For cord-cutters or those without cable, several live TV streaming services offer access to FOX and other channels covering the Daytona 500. Here are the top options:
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Sling TV:
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Sling Blue is the most affordable option, starting at £25.50 for the first month (£50.99 thereafter). It includes FOX in select markets, making it ideal for NASCAR fans on a budget.
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Fubo:
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Fubo offers a 7-day free trial and includes FOX in its base plan. After the trial, plans start at $84.99 per month. It’s a great choice for sports enthusiasts.
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Hulu + Live TV:
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Hulu + Live TV provides access to FOX and over 95 live channels. It also includes ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu’s on-demand library. Plans start at $82.99 per month, with a 3-day free trial.
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YouTube TV:
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YouTube TV offers FOX and other sports channels. While it doesn’t have a free trial, it’s a reliable option for streaming live sports.
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DirecTV Stream:
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DirecTV Stream includes FOX in its base plan and offers a 5-day free trial. Plans start at $49.99 per month after the trial.
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Daytona 500 Schedule and Supporting Events
The Daytona 500 is the highlight of Daytona Speedweeks, a week-long celebration of racing. Here’s a quick overview of the key events leading up to the main race:
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Wednesday, 12 February:
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NASCAR Cup Series Practice 1: 10:05 AM ET (FS1)
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Single-Car Qualifying: 8:15 PM ET (FS1)
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Thursday, 13 February:
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Duel Races: 7:00 PM ET and 8:45 PM ET (FS1)
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Friday, 14 February:
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Fresh From Florida 250 (Truck Series): 7:30 PM ET (FS1)
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Saturday, 15 February:
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ARCA Menards Series 200: 12:00 PM ET (FOX)
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United Rentals 300 (Xfinity Series): 5:00 PM ET (The CW)
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Sunday, 16 February:
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Daytona 500: 1:30 PM ET (FOX)
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Tips for Watching the Daytona 500
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Check Local Availability: Some streaming services, like Sling TV, only offer FOX in select markets. Verify your location’s channel availability before subscribing.
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Use a VPN for International Viewing: If you’re traveling abroad, a VPN can help you access streaming services as if you were in the U.S. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are highly recommended.
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Take Advantage of Free Trials: Many streaming platforms offer free trials, allowing you to watch the Daytona 500 without committing to a subscription.
Conclusion
The 2025 Daytona 500 is set to be an exhilarating start to the NASCAR season. Whether you watch it on TV or stream it online, there are plenty of options to catch every lap of the action. Don’t miss out on this iconic race—mark your calendar for 16 February and get ready for high-speed thrills!