The Southern 500: NASCAR's Ultimate Challenge

This Sunday marks the thrilling 76th running of the Southern 500, kicking off the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs at the legendary Darlington Raceway. Known as 'The Track Too Tough To Tame,' this iconic venue has seen a parade of champions and unforgettable moments.

Denny Hamlin: The King of Darlington?

Denny Hamlin reigns supreme at Darlington, being the sole repeat winner in the past 11 races. He not only clinched victory in April but has also dominated laps led throughout these contests, with three wins under his belt. However, he faces stiff competition from a field of top-tier drivers eager to steal the spotlight.

William Byron: The Rising Star

William Byron, the regular-season champion, made history earlier this season by leading an astounding 243 laps, a track record for the Southern 500. His remarkable performance showcases his prowess but also highlights the fierce rivalries brewing beneath the surface as the championship chase heats up.

Race Day Details You Can't Miss!

**Start Time:** The green flag waves at 6:05 p.m. ET, so grab your snacks and settle in! **Pre-Race Events:** - Garage opens at 3 p.m. - Drivers' meeting at 4:50 p.m. - Joyous driver introductions at 5:15 p.m. - The national anthem by the Parris Island Marine Band at 5:48 p.m. - Engines roar to life at 5:55 p.m.

Race Format and Stakes

Get ready for 367 laps (501.32 miles) on this challenging 1.366-mile oval. The race is divided into three stages, with Stage 1 concluding at Lap 115 and Stage 2 at Lap 230. The total purse? A staggering $10,447,135!

How to Watch the Action Live!

Catch all the action live on USA Network starting at 5:30 p.m. If you prefer radio, tune in to Motor Racing Network or SiriusXM NASCAR Radio for live coverage.

Weather Forecast: A Great Day for Racing!

Expect partly cloudy skies with a 23% chance of rain, temperatures around 82 degrees, and gentle northeast winds at 5 to 10 mph. By race time, it’s expected to be about 79 degrees with a slightly higher chance of rain, but nothing should dampen the excitement!

Don't Miss the Action!

Whether you're a die-hard NASCAR fan or a casual viewer, the Southern 500 promises adrenaline-pumping action and unforgettable moments. Tune in and be part of the chase for the Cup!