What time does NASCAR start today? TV schedule, channel, live stream to watch 2026 Darlington playoff race

Now that the NASCAR regular season is officially over, it's time to head into a thrilling playoff Chase. Drivers will not get much time to ease into competition, as the Cook Out Southern 500 gets things started on Sunday.

With the playoff circuit heading to Darlington, things should get interesting. The South Carolina oval is also known as "The Track Too Tough to Tame", and the Cook Out Southern features a grueling 501-mile stretch that has been humbling drivers for more than 70 years.

This weekend's race serves as the first of 10 postseason competitions that will culminate in a 2026 Cup Series champion. Only 16 drivers qualified for the Chase, with Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney and Tyler Reddick leading points, and Ryan Preece just squeaking in after winning last weekend's Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona.

Who can make an impression as the NASCAR postseason gets started?

Here's everything you need to know about the Cook Out Southern 500, including TV channel and streaming options for the NASCAR playoff race.

The 2026 Cook Out Southern 500 will get started at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, Sept. 6. The race will take place at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina.

The 2026 Cook Out Southern 500 will be broadcast exclusively on USA Network. Cord-cutters can also stream the action live on DIRECTV .

Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.

Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.

NASCAR Southern 500 starting lineup grid

NASCAR Cup Series playoff race schedule 2026