2026 Daytona 500: The Great American Race Returns

Everything you need to know about NASCAR's biggest event of the year

Feb. 9, 2026 at 2:23pm

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The 2026 Daytona 500, NASCAR's most prestigious race, is set to take place on Sunday, February 16th at Daytona International Speedway in Florida. The race will feature a 41-car field competing for 200 laps (500 miles) on the 2.5-mile tri-oval track. Defending champion William Byron looks to make it three straight Daytona 500 wins, but will face stiff competition from other top drivers like Denny Hamlin, Kyle Busch, and Chase Elliott.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is considered the 'Super Bowl' of NASCAR, drawing massive television audiences and serving as the official start of the NASCAR season. It's a marquee event that showcases the sport to a wide audience and often sets the tone for the rest of the year. Winning the Daytona 500 is a career-defining achievement for any NASCAR driver.

The details

The 2026 Daytona 500 will consist of three stages - the first two at 65 laps each, and the final stage at 70 laps. Drivers will vie for the 41 available spots, with 37 drivers locked in and 8 drivers competing for the final 4 spots through qualifying races earlier in the week. The race is scheduled to start at 2:30pm ET and will be broadcast live on FOX.

  • The Daytona 500 qualifying races will take place on Wednesday, February 12th.
  • The Daytona 500 Duels, which set the final lineup for the race, will be held on Thursday, February 13th.
  • The 2026 Daytona 500 is scheduled for Sunday, February 16th at 2:30pm ET.

The players

William Byron

The defending Daytona 500 champion, looking to become the first driver to win the race three years in a row.

Denny Hamlin

A three-time Daytona 500 winner seeking his fourth victory in the Great American Race.

Jimmie Johnson

The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion is returning to race in the Daytona 500 for the fourth consecutive year after retiring from full-time competition.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.

The retired NASCAR superstar will have a car entered in the Daytona 500 through his JR Motorsports team.

Kurt Russell

The legendary actor will drive the pace car prior to the start of the 2026 Daytona 500.

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What they’re saying

“Winning the Daytona 500 three years in a row would be an incredible accomplishment. I'm excited for the challenge and can't wait to get back on the track at Daytona.”

— William Byron

“The Daytona 500 is the biggest race of the year, and I've been so close to winning it a fourth time. This year, I'm determined to get that elusive fourth Harley J. Earl Trophy.”

— Denny Hamlin

What’s next

The Daytona 500 qualifying races on Wednesday, February 12th will determine the front row starters for the main event on Sunday. The Daytona 500 Duels on Thursday, February 13th will set the full starting lineup for the 2026 race.

The takeaway

The Daytona 500 remains NASCAR's crown jewel event, kicking off the season with high drama, intense competition, and the chance for a driver to cement their legacy with a victory in the 'Great American Race'. With a mix of past champions, rising stars, and sentimental favorites, the 2026 edition promises to be another thrilling chapter in Daytona 500 history.