Daytona 500 Qualifying Races Set to Finalize Starting Grid

Duel at Daytona qualifying races will determine positions 3-40 for NASCAR's biggest event.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 5:07am

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The Duel at Daytona qualifying races on Thursday, February 12th will finalize the starting grid for the 2026 Daytona 500. The first race will set the odd-numbered positions, while the second race will determine the even-numbered spots. Qualifying took place the previous night, but these 60-lap, 150-mile duels will complete the field for NASCAR's biggest event on Sunday, February 15th.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is one of the most prestigious races in motorsports, and the qualifying process is crucial in determining the starting order. These duels give drivers one last chance to secure a favorable position on the grid, which can greatly impact their chances of winning the Great American Race.

The details

The Duel at Daytona qualifying races will take place on Thursday, February 12th, with the first race starting at 7 p.m. ET and the second race following at 8:45 p.m. ET. The races will be broadcast nationally on FS1, and streaming options include Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. The qualifying order from the previous night's session determined the starting lineups for the duels, with the top two finishers in qualifying already locked into the front row for the Daytona 500.

  • Qualifying took place on the previous night, February 11th.
  • The Duel at Daytona qualifying races are scheduled for Thursday, February 12th.
  • The first duel race is set to start at 7 p.m. ET.
  • The second duel race is scheduled to begin at 8:45 p.m. ET.
  • The 2026 Daytona 500 is set for Sunday, February 15th, with coverage starting at 2:30 p.m. ET.

The players

Daytona International Speedway

The iconic racetrack located in Daytona Beach, Florida that hosts the annual Daytona 500, one of the most prestigious events in NASCAR.

FS1

The national sports television channel that will broadcast the Duel at Daytona qualifying races.

Fubo

A live TV streaming service that will offer coverage of the Duel at Daytona qualifying races and the Daytona 500.

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The takeaway

The Duel at Daytona qualifying races are a critical part of the Daytona 500 weekend, as they determine the starting positions for all but the front row of NASCAR's biggest event. Drivers will be fighting for every position, knowing that a favorable starting spot can make a big difference in their chances of winning the Great American Race.