Daytona Speedweek 2026: Preece’s Momentum, Byron’s Pursuit and a Return to the Chase
Daytona International Speedway is buzzing with anticipation as the 2026 NASCAR season officially kicks off with Speedweek. Forty-five cars are set to compete in the Daytona 500, alongside season openers for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and ARCA Menard’s Series, totaling 181 entries across all four divisions.
Ryan Preece Rides High on Early Season Success
All eyes are on Ryan Preece heading into the Daytona 500 after a stunning victory in NASCAR’s Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. The RFK Racing driver overcame challenging conditions – freezing temperatures, rain, sleet, and 17 cautions – to secure the exhibition win. This victory is particularly significant given Preece’s recent career trajectory, having been offered a fresh opportunity with RFK Racing after Stewart-Haas Racing shut down.
The Bowman Gray triumph holds personal weight for Preece, as it occurred at the same venue where he won the 2013 Whelen Modified Tour race, bringing his career full circle.
Byron Aims for Historic Three-Peat
While Preece enters Daytona with momentum, William Byron is looking to make history. He’s attempting to win the Daytona 500 for the third consecutive year, a feat never before accomplished in NASCAR’s biggest race.
The Return of “The Chase” Format
The stakes are higher than ever in 2026, as NASCAR has reverted to a championship format reminiscent of “The Chase.” Every point will matter as drivers battle for a place in the playoffs. This change adds another layer of intensity to the already competitive season.
Daytona 500 Speedweek Schedule: A Detailed Look
Here’s a breakdown of the key events during Daytona Speedweek:
Wednesday, February 11
- 10:00 AM EST – Daytona 500 practice #1 – FOX SPORTS 1
- 8:15 PM EST – Daytona 500 qualifying – FOX SPORTS 1
Thursday, February 12
- 4:00 PM EST – ARCA practice – N/A
- 5:00 PM EST – NASCAR Truck practice – FOX SPORTS 1
- 7:00 PM – NASCAR Cup Duels at Daytona (60 laps each) – FOX SPORTS 1
Friday, February 13
- 1:30 PM EST – ARCA qualifying – N/A
- 3:00 PM EST – NASCAR Truck qualifying – FOX SPORTS 1
- 4:30 PM EST – NASCAR O’Reilly practice – CW APP
- 5:30 PM EST – Daytona 500 practice #2 – FOX SPORTS 1
- 7:30 PM EST – NASCAR Truck race (100 laps) – FOX SPORTS 1
Saturday, February 14
- 10:00 AM EST – NASCAR O’Reilly qualifying – CW APP
- 12:00 PM EST – ARCA race (80 laps) – FOX
- 3:00 PM EST – Daytona 500 practice #3 – FOX SPORTS 1
- 5:00 PM EST – NASCAR O’Reilly race (120 laps) – THE CW NETWORK
Sunday, February 15
- 12:00 PM EST – Daytona 500 pre-race demonstrate – FOX
- 2:30 PM EST – 68th running of the Daytona 500 (200 laps) – FOX
Who’s on the Grid?
Thirty-six chartered entries are guaranteed a spot in the Daytona 500. Connor Zilisch, driving the No. 88 for Trackhouse Racing, is the only full-time driver making his 500 debut this year. Eight open entries will compete for the remaining four grid positions, including seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, who has secured an Open Exemption Provisional.
Other notable open entries include Corey LaJoie (RFK Racing), Corey Heim (23XI Racing), Chandler Smith (Front Row Motorsports), and Justin Allgaier (JR Motorsports).
FAQ: Your Daytona 500 Questions Answered
- When is the Daytona 500? Sunday, February 15, with the green flag dropping at 2:45 PM EST.
- Where can I watch the Daytona 500? The race will be broadcast on FOX.
- How many laps is the Daytona 500? 200 laps / 500 miles.
- What is the stage breakdown for the race? 65 / 65 / 70 laps.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the Duels on Thursday night. These races not only set the starting grid for the Daytona 500 but also provide valuable insights into car performance and potential race strategies.
Don’t miss a moment of the action as NASCAR’s biggest event unfolds. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the 2026 Daytona 500 promises to be a thrilling start to the season.
