NASCAR Rain Delay Rules

Although most NASCAR races don’t take place in the rain, there are important rules surrounding NASCAR rain delays and procedures. Rain on NASCAR tracks can put drivers in very dangerous situations. In addition, NASCAR tracks are outdoors, so rain delays are always likely because of the interests of NASCAR fans. Keep reading to learn more about NASCAR rain delay rules!

NASCAR Rain Delay Rules

Below are the rules for rain delays in NASCAR:

• If there is rain on any part of the track, a red flag is immediately shown, and the race is suspended.
• If there is rain or water on the track at the race’s start time, the start will be delayed until the rain has stopped and the track is dry.
• If more than 50% of the race has been completed at the time of the rain delay, NASCAR may declare the winner (and the other finishing positions) based on the driver’s positions at the time of the rain delay.
• If less than 50% of the race has been completed at the time of the rain delay, the race must be completed either at a later time or on a later day.
• NASCAR officials determine which option to exercise (declare a winner, complete at a later time, reschedule) based on the amount of the race remaining, time of day, weather forecast, and lighting capabilities of the track.
• If a race must be delayed for several days, it can be rescheduled for the week after the final race on the schedule.

Does NASCAR Race in the Rain?

Under most circumstances, NASCAR does not race in the rain. At road courses, NASCAR may choose to use rain tires and race under slightly rainy conditions. However, most NASCAR races will be delayed or postponed if there is rain or water on any part of the track.

Why Doesn’t NASCAR Race in the Rain?

NASCAR doesn’t race in the rain because of tire limitations and out of concern for driver and fan safety. NASCAR races are outdoor events, so only holding them during nice weather keeps fans happy, too. Keep reading for more information on all of these reasons, along with a list of NASCAR rain delay rules.

Tire Limitations

Tires on normal commuting cars have tread, which is a set of grooves in the tires that move water away from the tire as the car or vehicle is in motion. When these tires are worn down, the tread on the tires also gets worn down, which can result in what is known as hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is very dangerous as the driver loses control of the car on the road.

NASCAR tires, on the other hand, are completely smooth, with no tread. This is because NASCAR drivers want the most traction and contact with the race track at all times. Good traction is needed because NASCAR cars race at speeds of up to 200 mph. While NASCAR does have rain tires, they are only used at road courses and on short ovals.

Driver Safety

If NASCAR races happened regularly in the rain, there would be many risks involved. In addition to drivers losing control of their race cars, the visibility for the drivers is greatly reduced in bad weather. With limited visibility comes an increased risk crashing. As a result, NASCAR does not often race during rainy weather, especially when it limits visibility, because it is extremely dangerous.

Oher racing sports have raced in the rain, and the results have often been dangerous. For example, Formula 1 has had many races in the rain. While Formula 1 does not race in lots of rain, a little rain does not stop them from racing. In past races, these races have become dangerous with increased crashes.

Keeping NASCAR Fans Happy

NASCAR is a sport that depends on its fans and respects traditions. If NASCAR were to race in the rain, it would discourage fans from showing up to races and buying tickets in advance. This is because all NASCAR race tracks are open-air and afford little protection from rain, which would lead to fans getting wet during a rainy race. NASCAR wants people to buy tickets, attend races, and buy merchandise, and it is impossible to do so in inclement weather.

Fan Safety

NASCAR race tracks and grandstands are outdoors. As a result, there is little cover for fans to shelter under in bad weather. NASCAR cares about its fans’ safety just as much as that of its drivers, so it makes sure to cancel races during the rain. Fans are urged to find shelter until the weather improves.

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