Sports Betting, iGaming, Online Casinos & Prediction Markets Merge At Daytona 500

NASCAR's ties with the legal gaming space continue to accelerate as Daytona 500 kicks off a new season.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 3:47pm

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When the Daytona 500 returns this Sunday, the domains of legal sports betting, iGaming, online casinos, and prediction markets will converge at Daytona International Speedway. Major players in the gaming industry like Hard Rock Bet, FanDuel, theScore Bet, DraftKings, and Chumba Casino have all established partnerships with NASCAR teams and events, signaling the growing influence of the legal gaming industry in the sport.

Why it matters

The integration of sports betting, iGaming, and prediction markets into NASCAR represents a significant shift in the sport's business model and fan engagement strategies. As more states legalize various forms of online gambling, NASCAR is positioning itself to capitalize on this emerging revenue stream while also attracting new fans who are interested in the intersection of sports and gaming.

The details

Hard Rock Bet will have a prominent presence at Daytona, operating the infield fan zone, while also offering online slot-like games based on historic NASCAR results. Other gaming entities like FanDuel, theScore Bet, DraftKings, and Chumba Casino have also expanded their partnerships with NASCAR teams and events. 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, has particularly embraced the gaming industry, with Robinhood and Chumba Casino serving as prominent sponsors.

  • The Daytona 500 will take place this Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • In January 2024, Hard Rock Bet announced a partnership with Daytona International Speedway to become the exclusive sports betting operator at the track.
  • Chumba Casino extended its partnership with the 23XI Racing team for the 2026 season.

The players

Daytona International Speedway

The iconic racetrack that hosts the annual Daytona 500 NASCAR race.

Hard Rock Bet

The lone legal sports betting operator in Florida, thanks to a compact with the Seminole Tribe.

23XI Racing

A NASCAR team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR star Denny Hamlin, known for its innovative and disruptive approach.

Robinhood

A financial services company that has partnered with 23XI Racing as a sponsor, aligning with the team's 'disruptor' image.

Chumba Casino

An online casino that has expanded its partnership with the 23XI Racing team for the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“We want to disrupt The Big Three. We're all about being different. Robinhood lies up with our core values.”

— Bubba Wallace, Driver, 23XI Racing

“It's been cool to see Robinhood come into the sport. We feel a little bit of pressure when you see that bright-colored car go around the track.”

— Bubba Wallace, Driver, 23XI Racing

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The integration of sports betting, iGaming, and prediction markets into NASCAR represents a significant shift in the sport's business model and fan engagement strategies, as the industry seeks to capitalize on the growing legalization of various forms of online gambling across the United States.