What’s Happening?
NASCAR has had back-to-back weekends with interesting weather. Whether that was the rain in Daytona or the Cold spell in Atlanta, fans are wondering what will happen this weekend at Circuit of the Americas.
- Circuit of the Americas is a road course located just southeast of Austin, Texas. As one of the top-notch racing facilities in the US, the track has many layouts. For the first time since NASCAR started racing at COTA, the series will use a new layout in 2025.
- This weekend will be the track’s first doubleheader. Traditionally, all three NASCAR National Series have raced at the track since its 2021 NASCAR debut. This year, the Xfinity and Cup Series will race at COTA, as the Truck Series opts to race on more Eastern road courses.
- If rain does affect either race this weekend, the cars are equipped with a windshield whimper, and wet weather tires will be available for teams to use.
Weekend Weather Forecast via the National Weather Service (All Listed Times ET)
Saturday, March 1: Focused Health 250 on the CW (TV) and PRN (Radio) at 1:30 PM
Before the Race (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Temperature: 77°F at 1:00 PM
- Precipitation: 0% Throughout the Afternoon
- Wind: 3 to 6 mph
During the Race (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
- Temperature: 78°F
- Precipitation: 0% Throughout the Afternoon
- Wind: 6 mph
After the Race (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- Temperature: 77°F at 5:00 PM
- Precipitation: 0% Throughout the Evening
- Wind: 6 mph
Sunday, March 2: EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix on FOX (TV) and PRN (Radio) at 2:30 PM
Before the Race (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
- Temperature: 77°F at 2:00 PM
- Precipitation: 12% Chance Into the Afternoon
- Wind: 9 to 10 mph, gusts of 20 mph
During the Race (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
- Temperature: 77°F at 3:00 PM
- Precipitation: 12% Chance Dropping to 8% Throughout the Afternoon
- Wind: 10 to 11 mph, gusts of 30 mph
After the Race (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
- Temperature: 75°F at 6:00 PM
- Precipitation: 8% Chance Throughout the Evening
- Wind: 8 mph, gusts of 18 mph
Recent Weather Events at COTA: 2021 A Rainy Debut
In 2021, NASCAR debuted at COTA. However, this debut would be overshadowed by a massive rain shower. As the rain fell in Texas, top speeds and visibility were heavily limited for drivers. However, the then-reigning NASCAR Cup Series Champion Chase Elliott drove his way to victory, kicking off a must-see debut for what was one of NASCAR’s newest tracks.
Note: This article will be updated with a more accurate and detailed forecast as the race weekend nears.