BROOKLYN, Mich. AP — The NASCAR FireKeepers 400 was postponed until Monday due to rain, marking the second consecutive year that weather has delayed the race in Michigan.
The race was paused on Lap 51 of the 200-lap event as rain began to fall. Cars were brought to pit road in hopes that the rain would clear in time to complete at least half the race, making it official and avoiding a spillover into an extra day.
The race is scheduled to resume at 11 a.m. EDT on Monday.
Before the race was delayed, Austin Dillon drew some boos during driver introductions. In response, he kissed his right palm and waved to the crowd, a week after he controversially wrecked Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin on his way to winning at Richmond Raceway.
Hamlin, who started on the pole after rain canceled Saturday’s qualifying, saw his lead disappear after just a few pace laps. Jet dryers were used in an attempt to dry the track, but the rain continued.
After more than two hours, drivers returned to their cars, and Kyle Larson took the early lead, reaching speeds of over 200 mph on straightaways and about 180 mph in the turns.
On Lap 36, Bubba Wallace made an impressive move, passing both Larson and Hamlin, much to the delight of Michael Jordan, who co-owns Wallace’s 23XI Racing team with Hamlin. However, Hamlin soon lost control of his car while chasing Wallace, bringing out the caution flag.
Wallace opted for a pit stop, sacrificing a chance to win 10 points in the first stage, while Ryan Blaney took advantage and finished first after 45 laps.
With 12 drivers already locked into the playoffs, four spots remain open with three races left in Michigan, Daytona, and Darlington.
Drivers will have a quick turnaround after the FireKeepers 400, with qualifying for the Coke Zero Sugar 400 set for Friday in Daytona Beach, Florida.