NASCAR’s Phoenix race weekend faces uncertainty as heavy rain hits Phoenix Raceway, marking its wettest day in months. By Friday morning, 0.32 inches of rainfall had already fallen, threatening event schedules. The ARCA Menards Series saw delays, raising concerns about upcoming races, including the Shriner Children’s 500. However, weather forecasts suggest improving conditions, offering hope for a smooth weekend. With key drivers still chasing their first 2025 win, the stakes remain high as the championship battle intensifies.
Key Highlights
- Phoenix Raceway experienced its wettest day since July 2024, affecting NASCAR’s race weekend plans.
- Rainfall of 0.32 inches was recorded by Friday morning, causing concerns for race conditions.
- Improved weather is forecasted over the weekend, allowing races to proceed as planned.
- ARCA Menards Series and Cup Series races are expected to continue without further weather disruptions.
- The Shriner Children’s 500 will take place on March 9, crucial for drivers’ championship standings.
NASCAR Insider Jeff Gluck Shares Weather Update on X
Amidst the anticipation for the NASCAR race weekend, NASCAR Insider Jeff Gluck took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, to provide a timely weather update concerning Phoenix Raceway.
The city of Phoenix experienced its wettest day in several months, a situation that could potentially impact the scheduled racing events. According to KTAR News 92.3 FM, the National Weather Service recorded 0.32 inches of rainfall at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport by 9:30 a.m. on Friday.
This marked the wettest day since July 14, 2024, when 0.33 inches of rain was documented.
Gluck’s post, highlighting the rain-soaked conditions, gained attention as it coincided with the arrival of NASCAR’s Cup and Xfinity Series races. His message on X was succinct yet pointed: “Can’t make this up. #NASCAR is in town.”
https://twitter.com/jeff_gluck/status/1898118425249288280
This update serves as an essential piece of information for fans and participants, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of outdoor sporting events.
Weather Outlook for NASCAR Race Weekend
Although Phoenix experienced considerable rainfall recently, the weather outlook for NASCAR’s race weekend appears promising as conditions are expected to improve.
According to National Weather Service meteorologist Katherine Berislavich, predictions indicate that the city will dry out over the weekend. This development proves essential for NASCAR’s schedule, particularly as the ARCA Menards Series plans to hold its next race of the 2025 season at Phoenix Raceway, despite earlier delays caused by inclement weather.
If forecasts hold true, the Shriner Children’s 500 of the Cup Series and the GOVX 200 of the Xfinity Series should proceed without disruption.
The NASCAR Cup Series race is set for Sunday, while the Xfinity Series will commence on Saturday at 5:00 p.m. ET.
Meanwhile, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will not be affected, as it is currently on a two-week break before the upcoming Las Vegas Motor Speedway event next week.
NASCAR Drivers Eyeing First 2025 Cup Series Win at Phoenix
As the weather forecasts suggest favorable conditions for NASCAR’s race weekend in Phoenix, excitement builds among drivers who are enthusiastic to secure their premier Cup Series win of the 2025 season. Among the contenders, Tyler Reddick, Ryan Blaney, and Chase Elliott remain winless but are optimistic about their chances at Phoenix Raceway.
Reddick and Blaney have yet to win on this track, though Blaney has the notable achievement of clinching his initial NASCAR championship at Phoenix in 2023. Elliott, meanwhile, has a victory in Phoenix from 2020, which coincided with his first championship.
Standings and Race Details for the Shriner Children’s 500
The Shriner Children’s 500 at Phoenix Raceway is set to be an essential event in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, with the race scheduled for March 9 at 3:30 p.m.
The 312-lap oval race will be broadcast live on FS1, offering fans a chance to witness intense competition among top drivers.
In the current standings, three drivers occupy top positions alongside William Byron and Christopher Bell, both of whom secured a victory earlier this season.
As the season progresses, drivers aim to accumulate points vital for the championship, making this race a key moment in the series.
With challenging track conditions due to recent weather, the drivers face an extra layer of complexity.
The outcome of the Shriner Children’s 500 may greatly impact the standings, offering leading drivers a chance to solidify their positions and potentially altering the dynamics of the 2025 Cup Series.
News in Brief: NASCAR’s Phoenix Race Weekend at Risk
Despite the wet conditions threatening to disrupt NASCAR’s Phoenix race weekend, drivers remain focused on securing their initial 2025 Cup Series win at the Shriner Children’s 500. Weather updates from NASCAR Insider Jeff Gluck indicate potential delays, but teams are prepared to adapt to any changes. As the weekend progresses, fans and participants similarly will keep a close eye on both the standings and the skies, hoping for a successful and uninterrupted event at the Phoenix Raceway.
ALSO READ: Phoenix Raceway Weather Forecast: Will Rain Wreak Havoc on NASCAR’s Big Weekend?
