The NASCAR season-opener will be run on Saturday night (US Time) instead of the scheduled Sunday time slot in an effort to beat a severe weather event approaching Los Angeles.
Life-threatening flooding is forecast to hit the city, with the series forced into a late change in the interest of fan and stakeholder safety.
A statement from NASCAR was issued on Sunday morning (NZ Time) to announce the schedule change.
“Due to the threat of unprecedented severe weather on Sunday, the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Mexico Series race events for the Clash have been moved to Saturday night.
“Thanks to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and Los Angeles Public Safety for their partnership and support to make the schedule adjustment for tonight’s event to ensure a safe experience for fans, competitors, and staff.
“We understand weather conditions may worsen as the day progresses, so we encourage fans to make decisions in the best interest of safety. We appreciate our fans, partners, and everyone associated with this event on this unprecedented event.”
ThreeNow, who will screen the entire NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series, has confirmed they will broadcast the event in the new time slot, with racing beginning at 2.00 pm NZ time.
Header Image: NASCAR
