With just one hour until the green flag for the 2025 Daytona 500, thousands of eager fans are still stuck outside Daytona International Speedway, waiting in long security lines at multiple gates. The bottleneck has created a frustrating situation for those hoping to get to their seats before the start of NASCAR’s biggest race.

Security Checkpoints Causing Delays
Reports from the scene indicate that fans at multiple entry gates are experiencing long wait times due to increased security screening procedures. While enhanced security is standard for major sporting events, the sheer volume of people trying to enter has led to unexpected congestion, leaving many wondering if they will make it inside before the race begins.
Some fans have taken to social media to express their frustration, while others remain hopeful that security staff will speed up processing as the start time nears.
Not the First Time for Daytona Crowds
This isn’t the first time Daytona has experienced entry delays for a major event. Large crowds, tight security, and the logistics of getting 100,000+ fans into the grandstands have led to similar issues in past years.
However, with the Daytona 500 being the sport’s biggest race, missing the start is not an option for many fans who have traveled far and wide to witness history.

Will Everyone Get In on Time?
With one hour left until the green flag, speedway officials and security personnel will need to work quickly to ensure fans can enter safely but efficiently. For those still outside, it’s a race against the clock to get through security and to their seats before the roar of engines signals the start of the Great American Race.