Eyes are on the sky this weekend at Watkins Glen International. The track has threats of rain each day, Friday through Sunday, May 8-10. The parking and camping situation is also quite muddy, drawing some criticism aimed at NASCAR.
It’s certainly not unexpected for a May weekend, though fans now bear the consequences of the northeast rain that Spring brings.
Day-by-Day Rain Forecast
NASCAR Track Drier at Watkins Glen. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)(Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
Saturday, May 9
The O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and Cup Series are at The Glen today. The O’Reilly Series’ practice session was extended, and qualifying was canceled thereafter due to rain. Rajah Caruth is in the pole position.
Rain came down Saturday morning, not too heavy, but wet enough to impair qualifying. NASCAR prepares the track for Cup Practice and Qualifying, set to begin at 1:00 PM.
Rain will persist on and off this afternoon, with 30-60% chances, varying. Wet tires are available for use, and they will race if the track is deemed safe for the cars. There is a real risk that Cup qualifying does not occur and is set by metric, which would place last week’s winner, Chase Elliott, on pole position. Stay tuned for further updates.
Sunday, May 10
Sunday is the most favorable day in terms of rain. Chances are <20% for most of the day. Rain could peak at 50% around 7-9 a.m. ET. Otherwise, it dips, and ultimately, the race is expected to go on as scheduled.
Stay tuned across the weekend for new updates.
Rain Affects Watkins Glen Camping
Historically, Watkins Glen hosted its NASCAR weekend in the Fall. Criticism had been sent to NASCAR regarding the switch to a May race, which often brings plenty of rain in New York State.
On X, a post shows tractors pulling campers into the Watkins Glen camping area, leaving huge muddy tracks.
Other Reddit commenters state that the track has issued some refunds to campers. Other report refunds have been denied. Though we are unsure of the camping status, the scene is not pretty, nor will it get any prettier. If camping this weekend, be sure to reach out to your necessary parties at Watkins Glen.
NASCAR already promptly announced that its 2027 race weekend will return to the playoffs in the Fall. The date is yet to be clarified, but for weather reasons, it will likely be on the early end of the playoffs, most likely in September.
Related: NASCAR Adds Barriers to Watkins Glen Causing Concern Ahead of Race Weekend
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the Racing section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
