Rain started in Kansas City, Kan., just after 1 p.m. ET on Sunday and continued until the original 3 p.m. ET start time. Christopher Bell will lead the race when it finally starts. He won the pole in Saturday’s qualifying, which is the 11th time in his career. Bell hopes to turn his starting position into a win.
Bell said, “We’ve got a great starting spot and we’re in prime position to win some stage points. But 267 laps is a long time and I fully believe that we can have a great race and definitely believe I can (win), too.”
He added, “It just all has to come together and honestly at this point, I’m not looking for a race win, guys. I’m literally looking to see the checkered flag. And I know my car has great capabilities. If I just see the checkered flag with a clean car, we’re going to have a solid day and that’s what we’re after.”
This season has been a mix of good and bad for Bell. He won a race early in the year at Phoenix, which secured his spot in the playoffs. However, he’s struggled in recent races, finishing no better than 17th and having three finishes worse than 34th.
Sunday’s race might be a turning point for Bell, especially since Toyota drivers have won the last four races at Kansas and five out of the last six.
Other top qualifiers include Noah Gragson in third, Kyle Larson in fourth, and Kyle Busch in fifth. The top 10 starting lineup also includes Ty Gibbs, Austin Cindric, Michael McDowell, Chase Elliott, and Chase Briscoe.
During Saturday’s qualifying, both Briscoe and William Byron hit the wall. The race finally started after a three-hour delay and went green at 6:25 p.m. ET.
