Daytona 500 Stopped by Rain After Just 11 Laps, Trump Leads Ceremonial Laps

Daytona 500 Halted by Rain After Just 11 Laps

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The Daytona 500, one of the most anticipated events in the NASCAR calendar, faced an unexpected pause on Sunday. After just 11 laps, the race was halted due to rain, leaving fans and drivers alike in suspense. The day had started with much fanfare, especially with the presence of President Donald Trump, who made a grand entrance in his heavily armored presidential limousine, affectionately known as “The Beast.” In a unique twist, Trump led the drivers on two ceremonial laps around the track, adding a touch of presidential flair to the event.

The race had barely begun when the caution flag was waved, with defending Daytona 500 champion William Byron taking the lead. The rain began to fall on Turns 1 and 2, located on the West side of the 2 1/2-mile Daytona International Speedway, forcing officials to pause the race.

Before the rain interruption, President Trump addressed the drivers, expressing his admiration and support. “This is your favorite president. I’m a big fan. I am a really big fan of you people,” Trump said. “How you do this I don’t know, but I just want you to be safe. You’re talented people and you’re great people and great Americans. Have a good day, have a lot of fun and I’ll see you later.”

The excitement was palpable as Air Force One made a dramatic flyover of the Daytona International Speedway before landing. Trump, who traveled from West Palm Beach, Florida, was accompanied by several guests, including his son Eric, adding to the day’s high-profile nature.

In anticipation of the inclement weather, NASCAR officials had proactively moved up the start time for Sunday’s race by 70 minutes. The forecast had predicted a 99% chance of rain between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. ET, and with the track taking approximately two hours to dry, it was estimated that the race might not resume until around 7 p.m.

The day was not without its Hollywood touch, as “Captain America” actor Anthony Mackie was on hand to give the command for drivers to start their engines, adding a bit of star power to the proceedings.

• President Donald Trump led the drivers in “The Beast” for two ceremonial laps.
• William Byron was leading when the race was halted.
• Rain was expected, with a 99% chance forecasted between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. ET.
• Track drying could delay the race resumption until 7 p.m.
• Anthony Mackie, known for his role as “Captain America,” started the engines.

As the rain continues to pour, fans are left waiting, hoping for a break in the weather so the race can resume. The Daytona 500 is not just a race; it’s a spectacle, a celebration of speed, and a gathering of fans from all over the country. The unexpected pause has only added to the drama, making this year’s event one to remember.

Stay tuned for updates as we await the resumption of the race. Will William Byron maintain his lead, or will the rain bring unexpected twists and turns? Only time will tell.