NASCAR Daytona Duels Races Set for Today

Schedule, time, and TV info for the qualifying events ahead of the Daytona 500.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 10:39am

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The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season is underway in Daytona Beach, Florida, with the Daytona 500 scheduled for Sunday, February 16. Ahead of the main event, the Daytona Duels qualifying races will take place today to finalize the starting grid for the Daytona 500.

Why it matters

The Daytona Duels are critical qualifying races that determine the starting positions for the Daytona 500, one of NASCAR's most prestigious and high-profile events. These races generate significant interest and viewership as fans look to see which drivers will earn the top spots on the grid for the big race.

The details

The Daytona Duels consist of two 150-mile qualifying races that will set the starting lineup for the Daytona 500. The first Duel race will begin at 7 p.m. EST, followed by the second Duel race at approximately 8:45 p.m. EST. Both races will air live on FOX Sports 1.

  • The Daytona Duels qualifying races will take place today, February 12, 2026.
  • The first Duel race will begin at 7 p.m. EST.
  • The second Duel race will begin at approximately 8:45 p.m. EST.

The players

NASCAR

The sanctioning body for professional stock car racing in the United States.

Daytona International Speedway

The racetrack in Daytona Beach, Florida that hosts the annual Daytona 500 and other NASCAR events.

FOX Sports 1

A national sports cable and satellite television channel owned by the Fox Sports subsidiary of Fox Corporation.

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The takeaway

The Daytona Duels are a critical precursor to the Daytona 500, as they determine the starting positions for NASCAR's biggest and most prestigious race of the season. Fans will be tuning in to see which drivers emerge victorious in these qualifying events and earn the prime starting spots for the main event.