What Time Is the Xfinity Race on Today? Your Definitive 2024 Schedule & Watch Guide

Published 3 September 2026

The 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series season is in full swing, and if you’re tuning in to catch the action, you’ve likely asked yourself at least once: What time is the Xfinity race on today? The answer isn’t always straightforward—race start times vary by track, regional broadcasts may shift, and local time zones can turn a 3 PM ET race into a 12 PM PT event. For die-hard fans and casual viewers alike, knowing the exact timing is critical to avoiding missed pit stops, lead changes, or the climactic final laps.

This guide cuts through the noise. Whether you’re a season ticket holder at Martinsville, a weekend warrior following from a tailgate in Texas, or a global fan relying on delayed broadcasts, we’ve consolidated every official Xfinity Series race schedule for 2024—including pre-race ceremonies, green-flag sessions, and post-race awards. We’ll also break down how to adjust for your time zone, where to stream if you’re outside the U.S., and why some races start later than advertised (spoiler: it’s not just about the sun).

Missed the last race? No problem. We’ll walk you through how to set reminders, track delays, and even decode the cryptic "scheduled TV time" vs. "actual race start" discrepancies that plague NASCAR’s broadcast calendar. By the end, you’ll never again scratch your head wondering, What time is the Xfinity race on today?—you’ll have the answer at your fingertips, along with insider tips to make the most of race day.

The Complete Overview of Xfinity Race Timings in 2024

The NASCAR Xfinity Series, the second tier of stock car racing, operates on a 33-race schedule in 2024, blending road courses, short tracks, and superspeedways. Unlike the Cup Series, which often features prime-time races, Xfinity events typically start mid-afternoon or early evening ET, with local variations. For example, a race at Charlotte Motor Speedway might air at 3:30 PM ET but begin at 7:30 PM local time—critical for fans in the Carolinas who won’t want to miss the first lap.

Race start times are determined by a mix of track policy, television broadcast windows, and NASCAR’s internal scheduling algorithms. Superspeedways like Daytona and Talladega usually kick off later in the day (around 1:30 PM ET), while short tracks like Martinsville or Bristol often start as early as 12 PM ET to accommodate local audiences. The key is cross-referencing the official NASCAR schedule with your time zone and broadcast provider. Pro tip: Bookmark NASCAR’s official race calendar and set up alerts via their app or the Xfinity Series schedule page, which updates dynamically for delays.

Historical Background and Evolution

The Xfinity Series, originally the Busch Series (1982–2004), was rebranded in 2005 to align with its primary sponsor, Xfinity Communications (now Comcast). Over the decades, the series has evolved from a developmental league for Cup drivers to a standalone spectacle with its own fanbase, media deals, and even a dedicated TV network (NASCAR on NBCSN). The shift toward later start times in recent years reflects broader trends in motorsports broadcasting—longer races, more commercial breaks, and a push to extend viewership into prime time.

Historically, Xfinity races were often scheduled for early afternoons to avoid competing with Cup Series broadcasts. However, as the series gained traction, NASCAR prioritized overlapping TV windows, leading to races like the 1000Bowling.com 300 at Bristol starting as late as 7 PM ET in 2023. This strategy has mixed reception: purists argue it alienates local fans, while executives cite data showing higher ratings for evening slots. The 2024 schedule leans toward a balance, with most races starting between 12 PM and 3 PM ET, but always verify the latest adjustments.

Core Mechanisms: How It Works

NASCAR’s race scheduling is a logistical puzzle. For Xfinity races, the process begins with track negotiations to secure dates, followed by alignment with TV partners (NBCSN, Fox, and regional networks like Fox Sports South). Start times are then assigned based on factors like daylight hours, local events (e.g., avoiding conflicts with high school football), and NASCAR’s internal "flow" goals—ensuring races aren’t back-to-back on weekends. Delays, common in Xfinity due to shorter races (typically 200–300 laps), can push starts later, so the official schedule is updated daily.

For viewers, the confusion often stems from the difference between "scheduled TV time" (when the broadcast begins) and "official race start" (when the green flag drops). For example, the Texas Xfinity 250 might air at 1:30 PM ET but start at 2:30 PM ET due to practice sessions. Always check the NASCAR app or your broadcast provider’s race card for real-time adjustments. Pro move: Follow @NASCAR on Twitter/X for last-minute time changes.

Key Benefits and Crucial Impact

Understanding the nuances of Xfinity race timings isn’t just about avoiding FOMO—it’s about optimizing your viewing experience. For fans, precise timing means coordinating tailgates, travel plans, or even work schedules around race day. For broadcasters, it’s about maximizing ad revenue by aligning races with peak viewing hours. And for teams, late starts can impact driver rest and logistics. The ripple effects are clear: a misjudged schedule can turn a must-see race into a missed opportunity.

Beyond logistics, race timing plays a psychological role in fan engagement. A well-scheduled race—like the Daytona Xfinity 200 starting at 1:30 PM ET—creates anticipation, while a poorly timed one (e.g., a 7 PM ET start at a short track) can dampen local turnout. NASCAR’s data-driven approach to scheduling reflects this: races are increasingly staggered to avoid overlap with Cup Series events, ensuring fans can toggle between tiers without missing their favorite driver.

"The Xfinity Series is no longer just a feeder system—it’s a destination. That’s why we’re treating the schedule with the same care as the Cup Series, even if the races are shorter."
—Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR Senior Vice President of Competition

Major Advantages

• Flexibility for Global Fans: With races spanning from 12 PM ET to 7 PM ET, viewers in Europe or Asia can adjust their schedules to catch highlights via delayed broadcasts or streaming (e.g., NBCSN’s digital platforms).
• Local Market Optimization: Tracks like Martinsville or Bristol prioritize early starts to accommodate rural audiences, ensuring higher in-person attendance.
• Broadcast Innovation: Later starts allow for extended pre-race coverage, including driver interviews and fan segments, enhancing the viewing experience.
• Driver Development Alignment: Start times are coordinated with Cup Series events to allow drivers to transition between series without burnout (e.g., a driver in the Xfinity race at 3 PM ET can still attend a Cup practice later that day).
• Weather and Safety Adjustments: Xfinity races are more prone to delays due to shorter lengths, but precise scheduling helps mitigate disruptions (e.g., rainouts at road courses like Road America).

Comparative Analysis

Future Trends and Innovations

NASCAR’s Xfinity Series is trending toward more dynamic scheduling, with experiments like the 2023 "Xfinity Series Challenge" at Daytona, where races were staggered across multiple days. Future innovations may include AI-driven scheduling to predict optimal start times based on weather forecasts, fan engagement metrics, and even social media buzz. Additionally, as streaming grows, expect more races to offer "live anywhere" options, allowing fans to watch in their local time zone via digital platforms.

The biggest shift could be the integration of Xfinity races with Cup Series events. In 2024, NASCAR is testing "doubleheaders" where Xfinity races precede Cup races on the same day (e.g., a 12 PM ET Xfinity race followed by a 4 PM ET Cup race), creating a marathon viewing experience. This strategy could redefine how fans consume NASCAR, blurring the lines between the two series. For now, though, the classic question—what time is the Xfinity race on today?—remains the gateway to the action.

Conclusion

Mastering the Xfinity Series schedule is less about memorization and more about adaptability. With races spanning time zones, tracks, and broadcast platforms, the key is leveraging official resources, setting reminders, and staying flexible for last-minute changes. Whether you’re a die-hard following every lap or a casual viewer tuning in for the highlights, knowing the answer to what time is the Xfinity race on today ensures you’re never left in the dust.

As the 2024 season progresses, keep an eye on NASCAR’s evolving approach to timing—from AI-assisted scheduling to hybrid broadcast models. One thing is certain: the Xfinity Series is no longer a secondary event. It’s a vital part of the sport’s future, and its schedule reflects that ambition. So bookmark this guide, set your alerts, and get ready to experience every race at the perfect moment.

Comprehensive FAQs

Q: What time is the Xfinity race on today, and how do I find the latest updates?

A: The most reliable source is NASCAR’s official Xfinity Series schedule, which updates dynamically for delays. For today’s race, check the NASCAR app or your broadcast provider’s race card. Pro tip: Follow @NASCAR on Twitter/X for real-time adjustments.

Q: Why does the Xfinity race start time keep changing?

A: Xfinity races are prone to delays due to shorter lengths (200–300 laps) and weather sensitivity. NASCAR may adjust start times based on track conditions, TV broadcast windows, or even last-minute rescheduling. Always verify the latest time via the official schedule or your network’s race day coverage.

Q: Can I watch the Xfinity race live if I’m outside the U.S.?

A: Yes, but options vary. NBCSN’s digital platforms (e.g., Peacock) offer some international streaming, while regional networks like Fox Sports may require a VPN. For global fans, delayed broadcasts or highlights packages on NASCAR’s website or YouTube are the best alternatives.

Q: What’s the difference between "scheduled TV time" and "official race start"?

A: "Scheduled TV time" is when the broadcast begins (often including pre-race coverage), while the "official race start" is when the green flag drops. For example, a race might air at 1:30 PM ET but start at 2:30 PM ET due to practice sessions. Always check the race card for exact timings.

Q: Are Xfinity race times affected by time zones?

A: Absolutely. A race listed as 3 PM ET could be 12 PM PT or 11 AM CT. Use a tool like Time and Date to convert ET times to your local zone. For tailgaters or in-person fans, track websites often list local start times.

Q: How can I set reminders for Xfinity race start times?

A: NASCAR’s app allows custom alerts for race starts. Alternatively, use Google Calendar or Apple Reminders with the ET start time, then adjust for your time zone. Some networks (e.g., NBCSN) also offer email alerts via their websites.

Q: What happens if the Xfinity race is delayed or postponed?

A: NASCAR will announce delays via official channels, including social media and the app. Postponements are rare but may occur due to weather (e.g., rainouts at road courses). Always check for updates if the scheduled time passes without a green flag.

Q: Are there any Xfinity races that start unusually late?

A: Yes, especially at superspeedways or tracks with evening events. For example, the Daytona Xfinity 200 may start as late as 7 PM ET in 2024 due to Cup Series scheduling. Short tracks like Martinsville typically start earlier (12 PM ET), while road courses like Watkins Glen may have flexible timings.

Q: Can I watch Xfinity races for free?

A: Some races are free via local broadcasts (e.g., Fox Sports regional networks), while others require a subscription (NBCSN, Peacock). NASCAR’s website often offers free highlights, but live streams typically need a paywall. Check your cable provider or streaming service for included Xfinity coverage.

Q: How do I know if the Xfinity race is being broadcast in my area?

A: Use NASCAR’s schedule tool to filter by your location. Regional networks like Fox Sports South (Southeast) or NBCSN (national) will list which races are available. For international viewers, a VPN may be needed to access U.S. streams.

Q: What’s the best way to follow Xfinity race timings if I’m traveling?

A: Download the NASCAR app for offline schedule access. Enable "local time" settings to avoid time zone confusion. For road trips, pre-load race start times into your GPS or set up mobile alerts via the app’s notification feature.

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