NASCAR announces new start time for Chicago's Grant Park 220

NASCAR is in Chicago but Mother Nature is causing problems. Lightning has been in the area, causing for events to be pushed back to Sunday. That includes the Grant Park 220, which now has a new start time in the Windy City.

The green flag for the Grant Park 220 will take place at 4:05 CT/5:05 ET. The same broadcasters will carry the race, with NBC and Peacock being the destination on television. Hopefully, the weather will stay away and allow the race to be completed.

“UPDATE: Sunday’s green flag for the #GrantPark220 has been moved up to 5:05 PM ET on NBC, Peacock, @MRNRadio and @SiriusXMNASCAR Radio,” the tweet from NASCAR read.

FOX Sports NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass pointed out the timeline from NASCAR has been moved up by an hour. NBC will be getting on the air around the same time, only having about five minutes of pre-race coverage.

“That is about 50 minutes earlier than scheduled and right after NBC is scheduled to come on the air at 5p ET / 4p CT,” Pockrass said. “Green flag 5:05p ET / 4:05p CT tomorrow for Cup race.”

There could have to be some more flexibility from NASCAR and NBC when it comes to the broadcast. While the coverage is set to begin at 5 ET, there could be something that causes for a channel change.

NBC also is showing the PGA Tour’s Rocket Mortgage Open for Sunday’s final round. If the event goes past the 5 ET time — whether it’s due to slow play on the course or a potential playoff — some kind of decision will be made.

Either way, the race is going to begin at 5:05 p.m. ET. However, there is a slight chance NBC will not be the one broadcasting it at the beginning. Everything is in the hands of how the golf unfolds throughout Sunday afternoon.

When the race does get underway, Danny Hamlin will have pole position for the Grant Park 220. He was able to beat out Shane van Gisbergen on Saturday morning, winning the Chicago Street Race Course. A major victory for Hamlin as he will have the advantage once things get underway on Sunday afternoon.

Hopefully, the weather will be able to stay away as well. If so, Chicago will be the hub of NASCAR for the entire day. Some great events should be able to take place, including the Grant Park 220.