Kyle Larson longs for the days of his rookie NASCAR season when races kicked off earlier in the afternoon. Upon discovering that the FireKeepers Casino 400 has been moved to Monday at 11 a.m. ET, Larson took to X to express his desire for a return to the 1 p.m. ET start time for races.
“I really miss those 1 p.m. start times from my rookie year….” Larson shared. Initially, the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway was scheduled for Sunday at 2:30 p.m. ET, but weather conditions delayed the start until just after 5 p.m. Following Stage 1, NASCAR suspended the race due to additional rain in the vicinity. It was subsequently announced that the race would resume on Monday at 11 a.m. ET.
Prior to the red flag being waved, Larson was performing well, finishing 14th in the first stage. During Stage 2, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series Champion had advanced to seventh place. While Larson has already secured a spot in the playoffs, he is aiming for the regular season title, holding the top position in the Cup Series standings with three races remaining.
Kyle Larson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Share Similar Views
Larson is not alone in expressing concerns about the later start times. In July, NASCAR icon Dale Earnhardt Jr. advocated for all NASCAR races to begin at 1 p.m. ET, akin to the NFL schedule.
“I’ve always favored 1:00 starts right after lunch to kick off the race,” Earnhardt remarked. “I believe people are just finishing up, whether they’ve been to church or had a family lunch, and right after lunch, BAM! Let’s get the race going. The NFL does it every week with 1:00 and 4:00 games. There are valid reasons why networks schedule their programming at 3:00 and 3:30, but personally, I prefer the 1:00 starts.”
This year, none of the races are slated to start at 1 p.m. ET. The earliest any race has begun is at 2 p.m., while others commenced at 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 6 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Once the playoffs commence, races will kick off at either 2 p.m., 2:30 p.m., or 3 p.m. There is one playoff race scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. start, which is the Bass Pro Shops Night race at Bristol Motor Speedway.
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Kyle Larson Reflects on Nostalgia for Early NASCAR Race Start Times
NASCAR fans often reminisce about the sport’s early days, marked by the excitement of weekend races starting at traditional times. Among those reflecting on this nostalgia is Kyle Larson, a prominent driver who has firmly established himself in the NASCAR Cup Series. In this article, we will explore Larson’s thoughts on early race start times, the benefits of these time slots, and how they contribute to the overall NASCAR experience.
Kyle Larson’s Perspective on NASCAR’s Early Race Start Times
Kyle Larson, known for his aggressive racing style and incredible skill, has frequently shared his fondness for early race start times. According to Larson, these slots not only enhance the atmosphere of the race day but also cater to the fans who invest their time and passion into the sport. Here are some of his key reflections:
- Community Spirit: Early start times foster a sense of community among fans who gather together to watch the races.
- Daylight Racing: Day races allow for better visibility and warmer weather, enhancing the overall experience.
- Post-Race Activities: Early finishes leave ample time for fans to engage in post-race celebrations and discussions.
The Historical Context of NASCAR Race Start Times
The tradition of early race start times has a rich history in NASCAR. In its early days, races were predominantly held in the daytime. This practice allowed families to attend events together and enjoy a full day at the track. Here’s a brief overview of the evolution of race start times:
| Decade | Typical Start Times | Key Developments |
|---|---|---|
| 1950s | 1:00 PM | Day races were the norm, promoting family attendance. |
| 1980s | 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Shift to later start times due to television contracts. |
| 2000s | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Evening races become common, impacting fan attendance. |
| 2020s | Start times vary widely | Discussion around returning to earlier start times. |
Benefits of Early NASCAR Race Start Times
Kyle Larson’s nostalgia for early race start times reflects a broader sentiment within the NASCAR community. Here are several benefits of returning to these traditional start times:
1. Enhanced Fan Engagement
Early start times can lead to higher levels of fan engagement, as they allow for:
- Pre-Race Activities: Fans can enjoy tailgating or engaging in pre-race entertainment.
- Networking Opportunities: Early races provide time for fans to connect and build friendships.
2. Improved Visibility and Atmosphere
Racing during daylight hours offers several advantages:
- Better Visibility: Drivers can see the track clearly, reducing the risk of accidents.
- More Vibrant Atmosphere: Daylight creates an energetic environment that enhances the fan experience.
3. Family-Friendly Scheduling
Early race start times accommodate families by:
- Allowing for Young Fans: Earlier races enable families with children to attend without worrying about late-night returns.
- Creating Memorable Experiences: Race day becomes an all-day event that families can enjoy together.
Practical Tips for Enjoying NASCAR Events
If you’re planning to attend a NASCAR event and want to make the most of it, consider the following tips:
1. Arrive Early
Getting to the venue early allows you to find good parking, explore the fan zone, and participate in pre-race festivities.
2. Check the Schedule
Be sure to check the official NASCAR schedule for race start times and any changes that may occur. This ensures you don’t miss any of the action.
3. Engage with Fellow Fans
Take the opportunity to meet fellow NASCAR enthusiasts. Sharing experiences can deepen your appreciation for the sport.
4. Plan for Post-Race Activities
Consider what you want to do after the race—whether it’s celebrating with friends, meeting drivers, or visiting merchandise tents.
Case Studies: Early Start Times in Action
Several recent NASCAR events have showcased the benefits of early start times. Here are two notable examples:
1. Daytona 500
The Daytona 500 is one of NASCAR’s most prestigious races, traditionally starting in the early afternoon. Fans engage in festivities from morning until the race, showcasing how early start times can maximize enjoyment.
2. Bristol Night Race
While primarily a night race, some Bristol events have begun in the early afternoon. This shift allowed fans to enjoy the thrill of racing while still participating in evening activities post-race.
First-Hand Experience: Kyle Larson at Early Races
Kyle Larson has often shared his excitement and appreciation for racing in early time slots. One memorable instance was during the 2021 NASCAR season when he participated in several early events. Here’s what he experienced:
- Community Engagement: Larson noted a palpable energy from fans as they gathered early, discussing strategies and favorite drivers.
- Focus on Racing: The early start allowed him to focus on his performance rather than be distracted by post-race commitments.
The Future of NASCAR Race Start Times
As NASCAR continues to evolve with changing television contracts and fan preferences, the debate over race start times remains relevant. Larson’s reflections highlight a desire to return to the roots of the sport where community and family engagement are prioritized. Whether NASCAR will embrace these sentiments in future scheduling remains to be seen, but it’s clear that many fans echo Larson’s nostalgia for early race start times.
Kyle Larson’s reflection on the nostalgia for earlier NASCAR race start times resonates with many fans who cherish the community spirit and family-friendly environment that these times foster. As the sport continues to adapt, the hope for a return to these cherished traditions remains alive among the NASCAR community.
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